Football

DJ Epps Joins West Virginia as Transfer Portal Playmaker

From Troy’s record‑breaking season to a leadership role with the Mountaineers

A New Chapter in Morgantown

DJ Epps arrived in Morgantown this offseason after a standout year at Troy University, where he combined elite receiving skills with a knack for returning kicks. The senior slot receiver brings a blend of experience, versatility, and a proven track record that caught the eye of West Virginia’s coaching staff.

At Russell County High in Phenix City, Alabama, Epps first made his mark as a quarterback and wide receiver, earning all‑area honors with 30 catches for 544 yards and four touchdowns. Though he entered college without a Division I scholarship, he carved out a two‑year stint at Troy before emerging as a key contributor in 2024.

During the 2024 season he recorded 47 receptions for 512 yards and five scores, highlighted by a 10‑catch, 148‑yard, two‑touchdown outing against Texas State and a game‑winning overtime touchdown. His work on special teams was equally impressive, as he ranked second in the Sun Belt Conference with 554 return yards on 23 kickoff returns.

Coach Rich Rodriguez and inside receivers coach Logan Bradley highlighted Epps’s football IQ and his ability to absorb complex play concepts. Bradley noted that Epps “understands game situations” and “takes coaching well,” qualities that made him a reliable target in practice and a natural mentor for younger teammates.

Epps has embraced his new role as a leader, guiding the Mountaineers’ developing corps at the Y position. He says the intensity of the program under Rodriguez offers a different experience from his time at Troy, and he is eager to translate that energy into on‑field production.

Looking Ahead to the Season

With the upcoming season on the horizon, the coaching staff expects Epps to contribute immediately in high‑stakes games. His blend of receiving precision, return ability, and leadership is viewed as a catalyst for a Mountaineers offense seeking to build on recent progress.

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