West Virginia Takes Recruiting Out West, Offers Arizona 2022 DE Jacob Holmes

Since arriving at West Virginia, head coach Neal Brown has shown a willingness to expand the Mountaineers recruiting map, with the latest being an offer the staff made Wednesday evening.

2022 defensive end Jacob Holmes picked up his fifth Power Five offer as the Mountaineers officially extended him an offer. The 6’3″, 285 defensive lineman also holds offers from Arizona, Arizona State, Oregon State, Washington State, Colorado State, Fresno State, San Diego State, Utah State and San Jose State.

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted Holmes as his team, Cesar Chavez High School (Laveen, Arizona) was only able to play 3 games in 2020. Despite that limited schedule, Holmes was able to put up impressive film for prospective college coaches by registering 23 tackles (18 solo) and 11 tackles for loss.

Courtesy of Jacob Holmes

West Virginia Sports Now caught up with Holmes following his news from West Virginia.

”I was very excited when I initially got the offer and I found out by a phone call with Coach AJ the defensive line coach,” said Holmes. “Coach AJ called and told me he loved my camp and season film. Also, their defensive backs coach told me I would be a great fit for their defense.”

”Yes, the offer surprised me a lot and I don’t know a lot about West Virginia but I can’t wait to learn more about the location and their program.”

Courtesy of Jacob Holmes

Holmes was named First Team All-Region in Arizona and was named the Phoenix Union District defensive player of the year. For his senior season, the physical defensive lineman will play at Chandler High School and looks to build upon his junior season performance.

“I would say my biggest strength is my capability to stop the run and put pressure on a QB,” said Holmes. “Also, a lot of coaches have brought up my get off and my nastiness at the point of attack.”

Junior season highlights •26 total tackles •4.5 sacks in 3 games https://t.co/2w9mGthFrO

— Jacob holmes (@Jacobholmes33) November 23, 2020

Holmes is interested enough in the Mountaineers that he tells WV Sports Now that he intends to make an official visit to Morgantown in June, although the exact date hasn’t been finalized. Holmes also says that he will make an official visit to Arizona.

Earlier this week, 2022 4-star quarterback Nicco Marchiol from Chandler, Arizona, announced he’d be making an official visit to West Virginia on June 10-13. Marchiol is currently committed to Florida State.