The University of Virginia’s football program is looking ahead to the 2026 season with a mix of home‑grown talent and experienced transfers, each bringing a distinct skill set that could reshape the team’s dynamics.
A defensive stalwart returns home
Brandyn Hillman, a Virginia native who spent the past year at Michigan, is set to don the Cavaliers’ colors again. During his stint with the Wolverines he logged 49 tackles, earning honorable‑mention All‑Big Ten recognition and establishing himself as a hard‑hitting defensive back.
A versatile back with a championship pedigree
Peyton Lewis, another Virginian, arrives after a productive period at Tennessee where he was an all‑state selection at Salem High School and accumulated 629 rushing yards over two seasons. Known for his agility and vision, he is expected to add depth and explosiveness to the Cavaliers’ backfield.
A massive line ready to anchor the offense
Monroe Mills, a 6‑foot‑7, 322‑pound offensive lineman, transfers from Louisville after missing the 2025 campaign due to an ACL injury. Despite the setback, Mills is eager to make an immediate impact in what he describes as his final college season, bringing size and experience to the line.
Together, these three players illustrate a broader narrative of renewal for the Cavaliers. Their returns not only bolster the roster but also reconnect the team with a talent pool rooted in the Commonwealth, promising a season that could exceed expectations.