Update: Rich Rodriguez Explains Why Jaylan Knighton Was Removed from WVU Football Roster

In an interesting development, running back Jaylan Knighton is no longer listed on the WVU roster. This was first noticed on the morning of Wednesday, August 13.

WVU head coach Rich Rodriguez confirmed that Knighton’s removal was due to an academic issue. Rodriguez does not expect to have him available this season.

A five year veteran of college football who began his career at Miami and later spent three seasons at SMU, Knighton transferred to WVU Football following the spring practice period.

The 5-foot-10, 185 pound running back enjoyed major usage between 2021 and 2023, eventually developing into the Mustangs featured back, but a knee injury cut his season short after just two games last season. West Virginia already has their starting tailback for this season, with Jahiem White viewed as one of the top returning players at the position in all of college football. However, Knighton was viewed as a great offseason addition who could provide support behind White.

Knighton took a redshirt year with SMU after suffering a season-ending injury two games in.

Knighton picked up 1,729 rushing yards on 359 carries between 2021 and 2023, good for 4.8 yards per carry.

WV Sports Now will provide more information on this story as it develops.

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