Top Transfer Corner Michael Coats Jr. | WVU Football All 105

All 105 is a West Virginia Sports Now series profiling each member of the 2025 WVU Football Roster.

An early recruiting win for Rich Rodriguez and his staff, Michael Coats Jr. had visits to West Virginia and Ole Miss scheduled in early January. After visiting Morgantown, however, Coats knew he was home, committing to WVU Football before checking out his other options.

A 5-foot-10, 180 pound cornerback who snagged four interceptions and broke up another 17 passes in 2024, Coats solidified himself as one of the top transfers on the market. He began his college career with three JUCO seasons before transferring to Nevada in 2022, and will retain a year of eligibility thanks to a new NCAA rule designed to help former junior college athletes get a chance at the upper echelons of the sport.

With an All-Mountain West nod under his belt and a clear competitive drive, WVU Football fans should feel plenty of excitement as Coats tests his hand at Big 12 play.

3 • Michael Coats Jr., senior cornerback

Last year: Michael Coats Jr. put together a statement season during his second year at Nevada, helping him become one of the top cornerbacks in the transfer portal.

Stats: Coats snagged four interceptions, broke up 17 passes and made 41 tackles during the 2024 season, his first as a starter in Division I. 

Camp outlook: The Mountaineers had one of the worst pass defenses in the nation last season. Even without that tidbit, he’d have a decent chance of starting given his performance last season.

Projected role: Expect Coats to lock down a starting cornerback role.

Accolades, highlights: A First Team All-Mountain West selection in 2024, Coats’ journey from JUCO to Power Four makes him an easy player to root for.

Coverage Links:

Visit Convinces Nevada Transfer DB Michael Coats Jr. to Commit to WVU Football