In the Holler
2026 3-Star OL Explains What Could Give WVU Football Recruiting Edge
It’s all about wanting to feel at home for one top recruit being pursued heavily by the WVU football staff. 2026 three-star offensive line prospect Owen Winder talked to WV Sports Now after offensive line coach Matt Moore called him with an offer.
While Moore’s call with the offer was brief, Winder said he appreciated that the WVU coach made a point to ask how he was doing, especially because his dad is recovering from surgery.
“Coach (Matt) Moore asked about how my dad was doing (he recently had a surgery), and said it was great to see me at the visit last weekend! It was a quick call, but really great to hear from him,” detailed Winder.
WVU Football Officially Offers 2026 3-Star OL After Recent Visit
Winder is currently a junior at Dexter High School in Dexter, Mich. He recently attended the West Virginia-Kansas game, getting to watch the Mountaineers comeback in the final minutes to beat Kansas.
The West Virginia offer became Winder’s 10th from a Division I school to date. His other offers include Bowling Green, Central Michigan, Duke, Kentucky, Eastern Michigan, Miami (OH), Toledo and Western Michigan.
Knowing he has plenty of options already, Winder’s response when asked what he’s looking for in a program connects exactly to the family vibe WVU tries to pitch being a Mountaineer would be to recruits.
Mid Season Highlights‼️
HT: 6’7WT: 280
10 D1 offers https://t.co/KgOVRMfSXg pic.twitter.com/tGvTnEyCWm
— Owen Winder (@owen_winder00) September 29, 2024
“If football was taken out it would still feel like home,” said Winder, suggesting his decision will be about more than just football.
247 Sports ranks Winder as the No. 15 player in Michigan and the No. 42 nationally. He’s also been in contact with programs like BYU, Notre Dame, Pitt and Rutgers among others.
Find more coverage of WVU football recruiting at WV Sports Now.
