Virginia’s coaching staff unveiled a projected starting lineup for the 2026 campaign after the first scrimmage of fall camp, offering a clear picture of how personnel changes and health considerations will shape the team’s approach. The depth chart reflects a blend of established veterans, promising newcomers and strategic role adjustments as the program works to replace departed seniors and integrate transfers.
Quarterback and Running Back
Beau Pribula is slated to take the first snap at quarterback, building on his designation as the team’s primary signal‑caller. At running back, Jekail Middlebrook earns the starting role, stepping in for departing starter Peyton Lewis after a standout performance that impressed coordinators during camp.
Receiver Corps
Rico Flores Jr. holds the X‑receiver spot, balancing academic commitments with his on‑field responsibilities. While Kameron Courtney was initially earmarked for the Z‑receiver position, Jacquon Gibson’s consistent production in practice secured the slot‑receiver role, giving the offense a dynamic trio at the wide‑out positions.
Tight End and Offensive Line
Dakota Twitty is projected to start at tight end, continuing his role as the primary pass‑catching option at that position. Along the line, McKale Boley, recognized as one of the ACC’s top left tackles, will anchor the left side, while Noah Josey takes the left‑guard spot as one of the conference’s premier guards. Drake Metcalf shifts from right guard to center, providing interior depth under offensive coordinator Des Kitchings. Makilan Thomas, returning from a season‑ending injury, will start at right guard, and Monroe Mills, a highly ranked transfer portal tackle, is expected to man the right‑tackle slot. Devon Baxter, a Michigan transfer, could see action at BANDIT if Matthew Fobbs‑White struggles with his leg injury, and Fisher Camac is poised to improve his sack and pressure numbers as a defensive end.
Defensive Front
Jason Hammond leads the defensive line as the starting 3‑technique, anchoring the interior front. Anthony Britton will line up as the primary 1‑technique, expected to be a dominant run‑stopper for DC John Rudzinski. The interior also features Makilan Thomas and Monroe Mills providing depth at guard and tackle positions.
Linebackers and Secondary
Kam Robinson heads into his senior season as one of the nation’s top off‑ball linebackers, positioning him for potential post‑season accolades. Maddox Marcellus will assume a full‑time linebacker role after a strong 2025 showing, while Donavon Platt has solidified the SPUR safety position, with Corey Costner expected to share reps if he returns to full health.
Secondary and Special Teams
Omillio Agard is the coaching staff’s favored cornerback despite a cast on his arm during practice, and Jacobie Henderson will start opposite him after earning consistent reps in camp. Brandyn Hillman emerges as a defensive leader known for sharp processing and closing speed. Ethan Minter is slated to start at strong safety, bringing a linebacker‑like skill set to the secondary. On special teams, Will Bettridge will handle kicking duties, while Daniel Sparks, an All‑ACC punter last season, will continue to anchor the punt unit for his fifth year with UVA.