West Virginia Mountaineers Secure Transfers of Punter and Pass Rusher

West Virginia University (WVU) has successfully secured commitments from two new players during the current transfer portal period. The Mountaineers welcomed punter Bryan Hansen from Colorado State University and pass rusher Harper Holloman from Western Kentucky University. This marks a significant step in the team’s efforts to bolster its roster ahead of the upcoming season.

Hansen’s Impressive Stats Highlight His Potential

Bryan Hansen made a name for himself during his time at Colorado State. Originally a walk-on in 2022, he appeared in just one game that year. However, his performance improved significantly during his redshirt freshman season, where he handled most of the kickoff duties. Out of 45 kickoffs, he achieved 27 touchbacks. By 2024, Hansen had taken on the role of starting kickoff specialist, participating in all 13 games.

In a standout performance during the 2025 season, Hansen averaged 47.89 yards per punt, ranking third in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). His impressive stats included 13 punts inside the 20 and 23 punts over 50 yards. Additionally, his net punting average of 44.2 yards showcased his ability to impact field position significantly. With long-time punter Oliver Straw having exhausted his eligibility, Hansen is poised to take over as the Mountaineers’ starting punter.

Holloman Adds Depth to WVU’s Defensive Line

Alongside Hansen, the Mountaineers also secured a commitment from pass rusher Harper Holloman. The young athlete made an immediate impact during his true freshman season at Western Kentucky, participating in eight games and recording nine total tackles, including one for loss. In 2025, he continued to develop, achieving 39 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, and two sacks.

Holloman’s arrival is seen as a strategic addition to head coach Rich Rodriguez‘s plan to strengthen the Mountaineers’ defensive line. Having already added 49 players to the 2026 freshman class, Rodriguez is focused on building a competitive team from the ground up. Holloman joins fellow transfers, including Bowling Green EDGE David Afogho and Division II starter Will LeBlanc, to enhance the defensive front.

Defensive coordinator Zac Alley emphasized the importance of improving the team’s ability to penetrate the backfield in the upcoming season. The Mountaineers’ defensive performance showed promise at the start of 2025 but struggled towards the end, making Holloman’s addition timely.

As the transfer portal remains open, WVU has already welcomed 21 transfers since January 2, reflecting the significant turnover on the roster. While Rodriguez aims to limit the influx of new players, the departures necessitated these strategic acquisitions. The Mountaineers are preparing for an exciting season ahead with their new recruits.