WVU Football Inks Duquesne Transfer DB After Facing Him in 2023

A new addition for West Virginia’s defense secondary has arrived. Former Duquesne Duke Ayden Garnes has officially made the tip south from Pittsburgh and signed to join the WVU football program.

Garnes announced his commitment on Dec. 15. Listed at 6-foot and 170 pounds, Garnes garnered several other offers since announcing he’s transferring from Duquesne on Nov. 28, but was always believed to be headed to West Virginia.

𝓢𝓲𝓰𝓷𝓮𝓭 ✍️

Welcome to Almost Heaven, @AydenGarnes1!

🔗 https://t.co/sZwCOI5ok3#HailWV pic.twitter.com/Pyu2JivVm8

— West Virginia Football (@WVUfootball) January 10, 2024

After not seeing any action as a redshirt freshman in 2021, the Monsignor Bonner High School product out of Philadelphia, PA has become a significant impact player for the Dukes over the last two seasons.

His commitment came just five days after taking an official visit.

Garnes recorded 33 total tackles with two interceptions in 2022 and then took a big jump with 51 overall tackles and two more picks in 2023. He also has occasionally returned kickoffs and punts. He had three tackles against the Mountaineers this season.

Coming off being named a first-team All-NEC member, Garnes has two more years left of eligibility. He was also offered by Appalachian State, Ball State, Cincinnati, Coastal Carolina, FIU and Temple.

Click here for the rest of WV Sports Now’s coverage of WVU football recruiting.