Exclusive: Steve Slaton Endorses Return of Rich Rodriguez for West Virginia

WVU fans aren’t the only ones weighing in on the possible return of Rich Rodriguez, many of his former players aren’t afraid to share their thoughts as well. But in addition to the usual outspoken alums like Pat McAfee and Adam “Pacman” Jones, one of Rodriguez’s top players from his time leading the Mountaineers is ready to speak his mind.

West Virginia legend Steve Slaton, who helped WVU set the college football world on fire under Rodriguez, expressed his support for his former coach to WV Sports Now.

“Rich Rodriguez and his coaching staff saw potential in me when I felt others did not, offering me an opportunity that forever changed my life. Together with the late Coach (Calvin) Magee (may he rest in peace), they gave me the chance to etch my name into the history of WVU and college football,” said Slaton.

“Rich Rodriguez has a legacy of success built on his unique approach, and I believe he deserves the opportunity to return to Morgantown and continue that tradition.”

The moment WVU fired Neal Brown, there was one familiar name that immediately came to mind for some West Virginia fans – Rich Rodriguez. And now WV Sports Now can confirm an earlier report by WVNews.com that Rodriguez will officially interview with WVU in an attempt to get his old job back.

In the midst of rumors swirling that he’s destined to return to WVU, Rodriguez accomplished something he wasn’t able to achieve since leaving West Virginia. Rodriguez won his first FBS conference title since 2007, as Jacksonville State dominated Western Kentucky 52-12 to claim the Conference USA crown.

Slaton, widely regarded as the greatest running back in WVU history, totaled 3,923 rushing yards, averaged 5.9 yards per carry and scored 50 touchdowns on the ground in his three years in Morgantown. He also made 65 receptions for 805 yards. Slaton earned consensus All-American status in 2006 and was a key part of some of the most successful teams in program history.

Image credit to WVU Athletics

Image credit to WVU Athletics

In November 2022, WVSN’s Mike Asti asked WVU legend Rasheed Marshall if he would ever want Rodriguez to return as head coach of the Mountaineers during an episode of their past “All Three Phases” podcast.

For a related story, Asti detailed why it’s important to look at the total picture of Rich Rodriguez’s career.

Find more coverage of Rich Rodriguez at WV Sports Now.