WVU Football Recruiting
2026 ATH Picks Staying Home in SEC Over WVU Football
For the second consecutive day, the WVU football staff missed out on a 2026 recruit. After initially being set to announce in late June, Javonte Smith finally revealed his commitment decision on Tuesday.
Smith (6-foot-1 and 175 pounds) put a Tennessee hat on during a ceremony, picking the Volunteers over a final group of Arkansas, Missouri and West Virginia.
— Javonte Smith (@javonte_smith1) July 8, 2025
Smith was the All-Region Offensive Player of the Year in Jackson, Tenn. for his play during his junior season, totaling 1,027 receiving yards, 15 touchdowns, ran two kicks back and even scored on three of his five interceptions on defense.
Despite playing all over the field in high school, it’s believed WVU recruited Smith as a defensive back.
Smith is coming off his official visit to his Tennessee, saving his home state school for last. He spent a full weekend in Morgantown the week prior after trips to both Arkansas and Missouri.
Smith has been awarded three stars by both Rivals and 247 Sports.
Find more coverage of WVU football recruiting at WV Sports Now.
