The WVU Department of Intercollegiate Athletics announced that Pat White’s No. 5 jersey will be retired during the 2026 season, with the ceremony scheduled for the September 5 game against Coastal Carolina. The announcement was made on June 5, marking a milestone that will place White’s number alongside other iconic Mountaineer figures.
White’s career at West Virginia was defined by unprecedented success. He led the team to a 35‑8 record as a starter, captured four consecutive bowl victories from 2005 to 2008, and amassed 19 WVU, Big East and national records. His 4,480 rushing yards make him the all‑time leading rushing quarterback in NCAA history, and he became the first player in Big East history to surpass 10,000 career yards of total offense.
A Career Defined by Records and Wins
White’s versatility earned him recognition as the nation’s most dynamic quarterback, culminating in a 7‑2 record against Top 25 opponents and a .777 winning percentage in those matchups. He set Big East marks for touchdowns responsible for (103) and total offense (10,529), and his 2006 Sugar Bowl, 2007 Gator Bowl, 2008 Fiesta Bowl and 2008 Meineke Car Care Bowl championships remain cornerstones of Mountaineer lore.
Beyond the statistics, White’s legacy extends to his induction into the WVU Sports Hall of Fame and the football Mountaineer Legends Society in 2018. Teammates, national media and fans worldwide have praised his impact, describing him as a generational talent for West Virginia football. He currently serves on the WVU coaching staff, continuing to shape the program he once led on the field.
The upcoming retirement ceremony will join No. 5 with six other retired numbers: 9 (Major Harris), 21 (Ira Rodgers), 66 (Chuck Howley), 75 (Sam Huff), 77 (Bruce Bosley) and 90 (Darryl Talley). This honor reflects not only White’s on‑field achievements but also his lasting influence on the university community and the broader college football landscape.