West Virginia Mountaineers football eyes expanded roles for tight end Ryan Ward and freshman cornerback Vincent Smith

Junior tight end Ryan Ward, a former three‑star recruit from New Jersey, is projected to move from a depth role to a key contributor for the Mountaineers in his second season. After catching six passes for 41 yards and one touchdown last year, Ward said the transition feels "long time coming" as he adapts to Coach Rich Rodriguez’s system.

True freshman cornerback Vincent Smith, a 6’1”, 218‑lb recruit from Illinois, is highlighted as a potential defensive asset who could earn playing time at cornerback, safety, or on special teams. Smith arrived at West Virginia in the summer, came in with a strong high‑school record of 28 solo tackles, nine pass breakups, two interceptions and two forced fumbles, and chose the Mountaineers over offers from several other programs. Coaches expect he may see limited action early against non‑conference opponents before competing for a regular role later in the season.