Marshall Media Helps to Evaluate West Virginia WR EJ Horton

EJ Horton is going to be able to experience a rarity in West Virginia – attending both major universities in the state. Horton has now signed on with the Mountaineers after transferring out of Marshall, but what does he bring to WVU?

Initially, Horton was planning to leave the state of West Virginia and join Deion Sanders in Colorado. But after Colorado stole away a receiver previously committed to WVU, Horton changed his mind and decided to play for Neal Brown in 2023. Horton wants to be somewhere that can offer him an opportunity as much as anything.

In order to fully get an idea of what Horton brings to the West Virginia offense, we asked members of media who cover the Thundering Herd what they think of the 6-foot, 180-pound Louisville, Kentucky native. The focus was on the burst of speed and explosiveness Horton can offer. This is something that’s otherwise missing from WVU’s current crop of receivers.

“He’s fast, really didn’t get much of an opportunity at Marshall. I think he’s something that has more upside,” said Paul Swann of WRVC-AM 930. “He also ran indoor track for Marshall, I don’t know if too many people know that. He did play on special teams, but he just had limited opportunities and is better on the outside,” Swann added.

Former WV Sports Now contributor Tom Bragg, now currently of the Register Herald, also mentioned Horton’s big play potential while bringing up his inconsistency too.

“He vanishes for stretches then pops up with a big catch. Good skills but a little inconsistent,” said Bragg.

WOWK anchor Cassidy Wood explained he was mostly used on special teams, but did show flashes of being more, granted that was against FCS competition.

Horton Fills a Void for WVU Offense

Asti: Flipping Transfer WR EJ Horton Fills Void for West Virginia Offense

Having a receiver who can run by any defender is essential for a WVU offense that will only go as far as its ground game takes it. Horton will keep defenses honest beyond just worrying about shorter designed pass plays to mix things up. With Horton out on one side, defenses will have to always be ready for the possibility of a big play down the field.

In addition to how he will be used, it’s possible Horton, who caught just 12 balls for 186 yards and a touchdown in 2022, is able to truly be unleashed with West Virginia. A mobile quarterback can create more time for Horton to get open, increasing the chances of big plays when you least expect them.