WVU QB Jaylen Henderson Downgraded to Out for BYU Game

WVU quarterback Jaylen Henderson has officially been downgraded to “out” for Friday night’s game. After being listed as “questionable” most of the week, Henderson was moved to “out” Wednesday night.

Henderson’s absence further solidifies what WV Sports Now has been reporting all week – freshman Khalil Wilkins will start for the Mountaineers.

Well, this looks on the money now with Jaylen Henderson officially out. https://t.co/u4QGLqPGip

— Mike J. Asti (@MikeAsti11) October 2, 2025

After starting veteran Henderson against Utah, Rodriguez will look to a younger option as West Virginia attempts to upset BYU.

During his weekly press conference, Rodriguez, who admitted Henderson failed to provide the spark they were looking for against Utah – he completed just three passes for 22 yards and only ran for 28 more, raved about what he saw from Wilkins.

WVU quarterback Jaylen Henderson talks with head coach Rich Rodriguez during a game against Utah in 2025. (WVSN photo by Kelsie LeRose)

“Khalil can make all the throws and obviously he’s a dynamic runner. He’s got some explosive ability. I think his future, his upside looks really good,” said Rodriguez when asked to evaluate Wilkins’ play. Rodriguez also added that Wilkins is “explosive” and has a tremendous upside.

This news comes on the heels of Nicco Marchiol’s tenure at WVU coming to an end. Marchiol will receive a medical redshirt for 2025 and then transfer at the end of the season.

West Virginia and BYU are set to kickoff from Provo, Utah at 10:30 pm ET. The game will be broadcast nationally on ESPN.

For a related story, several players could return to acton for WVU this week.