
West Virginia University’s football program has strategically bolstered its defensive lineup by securing two promising linebackers through the transfer portal for the 2025 season.
These acquisitions are pivotal as the Mountaineers aim to strengthen their defense under new head coach Rich Rodriguez.
Ashton Woods: A Freshman Talent from UNC
On January 5, 2025, freshman linebacker Ashton Woods announced his commitment to the Mountaineers. Woods, who spent his initial collegiate year at the University of North Carolina (UNC), participated in six games during the 2024 season, primarily contributing on special teams. Despite limited playing time and not recording any official statistics, his high school performance and recruitment profile highlight his potential. As a three-star recruit, Woods received offers from notable programs, including Oklahoma, Arkansas, Baylor, Kansas State, and Pittsburgh, before choosing UNC. His decision to transfer to West Virginia provides him with three remaining years of eligibility, offering ample opportunity to develop and make a significant impact on the Mountaineers’ defense.
Reid Carrico: An Experienced Addition from Ohio State
In addition to Woods, West Virginia secured Reid Carrico, a redshirt junior linebacker transferring from Ohio State University. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 235 pounds, Carrico hails from Ironton, Ohio, and brings a blend of experience and academic accolades to the Mountaineers. During the 2023 season, he played in the first ten games, mainly on special teams, before missing the final three games. His academic achievements include being named an Academic All-Big Ten Conference honoree and an Ohio State Scholar-Athlete. Carrico’s high school career was distinguished by his versatility and excellence on both offense and defense. He was the first player to be named the Ohio Prep Sportswriters Southeast District Player of the Year for both offense and defense in the same season. His defensive prowess was further recognized when he was named Ohio’s Defensive Player of the Year in 2019. With two years of eligibility remaining, Carrico is expected to bring leadership and a competitive edge to West Virginia’s linebacker corps.
Strategic Implications for West Virginia’s Defense
The addition of Woods and Carrico comes at a crucial time for the Mountaineers, who are undergoing significant roster changes and a coaching transition. The departure of key defensive players, including linebackers Josiah Trotter and Trey Lathan, who entered the transfer portal amidst the coaching change, has left gaps that need to be addressed. Trotter, a standout freshman, recorded 92 tackles in the 2024 season and was named the Big 12 Conference Defensive Freshman of the Year before transferring to Missouri.
Head coach Rich Rodriguez, known for emphasizing a hard-edged culture, is actively rebuilding the team’s defensive framework. The infusion of talent from players like Woods and Carrico is expected to enhance the team’s depth and performance. Rodriguez’s approach includes assembling a coaching staff that aligns with his philosophy, retaining key personnel such as Blaine Stewart, and bringing in new assistants to revitalize the program.
Looking Ahead
As the Mountaineers prepare for the upcoming season, the integration of these transfer linebackers will be closely watched by fans and analysts. Their development and contributions will play a significant role in West Virginia’s defensive strategies and overall performance in the 2025 season. The successful assimilation of Woods and Carrico into the defensive lineup could signal a positive trajectory for the Mountaineers under Coach Rodriguez’s leadership.