If West Virginia Had a 2026 NFL Draft: The First Round

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>The Exposure Series Camp is returning to WV on May 17th at The Bridge Sports Complex in Bridgeport, WV! Code WV26RDZExpo10 will give you a discount when you registe</em>r&nbsp;<a href="https://events.prepredzone.com/e/2239/register/exposure-series-west-virginia-session-1">HERE</a><em>!</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The NFL Draft is upon us, and it's all about building a team, not just picking the best players. So what would it look like if we did the same thing in West Virginia? Two teams, Team Gold and Team Blue, in a two-round Snake Draft to determine the best ultimate high school team in WV. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Instead of rankings, this is a full two-round mock draft with a snake format, building two complete teams from the ground up. Every pick matters. Quarterbacks, linemen, playmakers, and depth all come into play as each roster takes shape. Certain positions outweigh overall rankings. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Here's how a 64-pick, two-round WV draft could play out, starting with the first round. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #1 - TEAM GOLD</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='923337' first='Maddox' last='Twigg'] - 2028 Morgantown QB/ATH</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>At the most important position on the field, this is an easy decision. Twigg is one of the top overall prospects in the state and has already proved it by leading Morgantown to a state championship. His versatility and athleticism separate him, but it's the ability to impact the game in multiple ways that makes him the clear choice to build around at the top.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #2 - TEAM BLUE</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='864598' first='Landyn' last='Moore'] - 2027 Princeton OT</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Premium position and rare size make this an easy call early. Moore brings a 6'5, 290 frame with Power Four-level interest and the kind of tools you build an offense around at tackle. Coming off a state championship season, Moore gives Team Blue a cornerstone up front with long-term upside.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #3 - TEAM BLUE</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='862720' first='Isaiah' last='Conley'] - 2027 Independence EDGE/DE</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Production and motor jump off the film, and that's hard to pass up this early. Conley brings length, athleticism, and a frame you can continue to build on, along with proven pass-rush ability. He's a disruptive presence who plays with energy and gives Team Blue another foundational piece on the defensive side.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #4 - TEAM GOLD</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1154974' first='Boston' last='Todd'] - 2027 Martinsburg WR/ATH</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Dynamic playmaker with proven production, and the kind of athlete who changes games the moment he touches the ball. Todd brings versatility as a receiver and returner, and his ability in space makes him a constant threat. With QB already in place, Team Gold adds a true difference-maker to build the offense around.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #5 - TEAM GOLD</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='920539' first='Eli' last='Thompson'] - 2027 Cabell Midland EDGE</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Versatility and upside make this a strong value pick here. Thompson has experience across the front seven and brings a 6'3 225 frame with the ability to keep developing physically. He plays with power coming downhill and flashes as a pass rusher, giving Team Gold a flexible defensive piece they can move around and build with.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #6 - TEAM BLUE</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1311053' first='Paxtyn' last='Calhoun'] - 2028 Blufield WR</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Size and production make this an easy value pick here. Calhoun is coming off a big year and already looks like a matchup problem at 6'3 190 with room to keep developing. As a younger prospect with clear upside, he gives Team Blue a true outside target they can grow with and build around long-term.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #7 - TEAM BLUE</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='2136601' first='Donte' last='Newsome'] - 2027 Huntington DB/ATH</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Versatility and athleticism stand out here, and there's a lot of value in a player who can impact both sides. Newsome projects well in the secondary with the ability to play safety or corner, bringing range and playmaking ability. He also gives Team Blue flexibility to use him on offense, making this a dynamic pick with multiple ways to contribute.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #8 - TEAM GOLD </strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1674336' first='Luke' last='Braham'] - 2027 University OT</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>You're betting on traits and long-term development here, and Braham checks both boxes. He brings a 6'5 frame with real athleticism from his WR/TE background, and his recent recruiting momentum backs up the upside. Add in NFL family pedigree, and this is a high-ceiling tackle pick for Team Gold as he continues to grow into his frame.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #9 - TEAM GOLD</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='951269' first='Colton' last='Roberson'] - 2028 Pendleton County DB/ATH</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>One of the more versatile athletes on the board, and the production backs it up. Roberson can line up at multiple skill spots, but his long-term projection at safety adds real value, especially as a potential box presence. Coming from a smaller program, he's put up big numbers and shows the athleticism to translate, giving Team Gold a flexible defender with upside.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #10 - TEAM BLUE</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1271395' first='Harrison' last='Helbig'] - 2027 University QB</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Team Blue gets strong value at quarterback here without reaching early. Helbig brings a prototypical 6'5 frame and operates well from the pocket with the ability to push the ball downfield. With proven production and a spread offense skill set, he gives this team a reliable foundation to build around behind center. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #11 - TEAM BLUE</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1155316' first='David' last='Robinson Jr'] - 2027 Capital RB</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Top back on the board with the resume to match. Robinson has a sturdy, every-down build and four years of production, with offers backing up the talent. This gives Team Blue a reliable run-game centerpiece who can carry volume and stay on the field in all situations.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #12 - TEAM GOLD </strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='897609' first='Christian' last='Hoosier'] - 2027 Williamstown DL</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Defensive line value is hard to pass up here, and Hoosier fits exactly what you want early. He brings a strong, powerful build at 6'2 240 with the ability to line up inside or outside, giving flexibility across the front. With his strength, athleticism, and disruptive style, he adds another tone-setting piece to Team Gold's defensive front.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #13 - TEAM GOLD</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1326514' first='Hayden' last='George'] - 2027 University WR/DB</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>High-level production on both sides of the ball makes this a strong value pick here. George brings polish as a route runner from the slot and the athleticism to create separation, while also offering defensive versatility if needed. Team Gold adds a dynamic, proven playmaker who can impact the game in multiple ways.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #14 - TEAM BLUE</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1154709' first='Ty' last='Ricketts'] - 2027 Martinsburg S</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Instincts and production make this a smart pick in the middle of the round. Ricketts plays a hybrid role at the high school level, but his feel for the game and ability to consistently be around the football project well to the secondary. He fits best as a Nickel with the versatility to play in the slot and closer to the line, giving Team Blue a reliable and intelligent defensive piece.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #15 - TEAM BLUE</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='863631' first='Ilias' last='King'] - 2027 Huntington LB</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>You know exactly what you're getting here, and there's value in that. King is a true inside linebacker who plays downhill, brings physicality, and consistently produces against the run. He gives Team Blue a tone-setter in the middle of the defense who can control the box and clean up between the tackles.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #16 - TEAM GOLD</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1155320' first='Tavion' last='Woods'] - 2027 George Washington LB</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Athletic profile and versatility make this a strong addition to the second level. Woods has a background in the secondary but has grown into a linebacker frame, projecting well as an outside backer with range and movement skills. With production on both sides of the ball, he gives Team Gold a flexible defender who can run, cover, and stay on the field in multiple situations.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #17 - TEAM GOLD</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1292038' first='Brody' last='Kehler'] - 2028 University S/ATH</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>You're betting on talent and upside here. Kehler is a young, versatile athlete who projects well at strong safety or OLB, bringing range and physicality to the back end. Despite missing time last season, the flashes are there, and Team Gold adds a high-ceiling defender who can grow into a key piece.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #18 - TEAM BLUE</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1616167' first='James' last='Payne'] - 2027 George Washington OL</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Versatility up front carries real value here. Payne can project at tackle or slide inside, and his state champion wrestling background shows up in his balance, leverage, and hand usage. With D1 interest and room to keep adding to his frame, Team Blue gets an athletic lineman they can develop and move around up front.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #19 - TEAM BLUE</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1222034' first='Jacob' last='Britton'] - 2028 Doddridge County DL</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Interior disruption with youth and upside makes this a strong pick here. Britton is a stout, physical presence who plays with power in the middle and consistently clogs lanes. With the ability to contribute on the offensive line as well, Team Blue adds a tough, versatile piece inside with long-term development potential.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #20 - TEAM GOLD</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1958273' first='Jeremiah' last='Jones'] - 2028 Bluefield RB</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>High-end production at a young age makes this a strong value pick here. Jones is a well-rounded back with a physical frame, showing the ability to run through contact while still making defenders miss in space. With speed to get outside and toughness between the tackles, he gives Team Gold a complete option in the backfield with plenty of upside moving forward and linebacker versatility. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #21 - TEAM GOLD</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1111466' first='Konnor' last='Mott'] - 2027 Morgantown OG</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>You're betting on traits and projection here. Mott has a massive 6'4 320 frame and profiles as a true guard with the ability to move people in the run game. Limited film due to injury last season, but the strength and power show up. Team Gold adds a high-upside interior piece to build around here. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #22 - TEAM BLUE</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1666004' first='King' last='Abercrombie'] - 2027 Fairmont Senior DL</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Versatility and power up front make this a strong value pick. Abercrombie can line up inside or on the edge, and his wrestling background shows up in his leverage and hand usage. With athletic traits and room to develop, Team Blue adds a disruptive piece with real upside along the defensive front.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #23 - TEAM BLUE</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='920512' first='Andreas' last='Reese'] - 2027 Huntington WR</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Easy value with a true playmaker still on the board. Reese brings real speed from the slot and can stress a defense immediately with the ball in his hands. Add in return ability, and Team Blue gets a dynamic weapon who can create explosive plays in multiple phases.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #24 - TEAM GOLD</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1826125' first='Jaden' last='Black'] - 2029 George Washington RB</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Early pick on youth, but the production justifies it. Black broke out as a freshman and showed he can handle volume, finishing runs, and consistently fighting through contact. Not the biggest back, but the durability and toughness are there, and Team Gold adds a high-upside runner with proven production already.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #25 - TEAM GOLD</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1185571' first='Keian' last='Shelton'] - 2027 Cabell Midland TE/DE</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Size, versatility, and two-way production make this a strong value here. Shelton brings a 6'5 230 frame with athleticism and ball skills that translate well at tight end, while also showing defensive production. Playing in a run-heavy system, he's proven he can block, giving Team Gold a complete, high-upside piece they can move around.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #26 - TEAM BLUE</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1309692' first='Lucas' last='Lambert'] - 2028 Logan TE</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Strong value on a young tight end with traits that translate. Lambert pairs size with fluid movement and has already produced early in his career, which is tough to find at the position. With his athletic profile and upside, Team Blue adds a matchup piece they can develop into a reliable target.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #27 - TEAM BLUE</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1154946' first='Morgan' last='Watts'] - 2027 South Charleston OL</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Premium traits at a premium position that's still on the board. Watts has a 6'5 frame with length and athleticism that project well at tackle, and the offer list backs up the upside. With room to continue developing physically, Team Blue adds another high-ceiling piece on the edge to build around.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #28 - TEAM GOLD</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1154943' first='Elijah' last='Bausley'] - 2027 South Charleston C</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Interior versatility and polish make this a smart addition up front. Bausley has experience at both guard and center, plays with natural leverage, and moves well in space despite not having elite length. With multiple D1 offers, Team Gold adds a reliable, athletic interior lineman who can stabilize the middle of the line.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #29 - TEAM GOLD</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1615402' first='Darryn' last='McCormick'] - 2027 Linsly DL</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Versatility along the front and steady development make this a strong value pick. McCormick can line up inside or outside, but projects well on the interior where his power and athleticism show up most. With a good motor and consistent improvement, Team Gold adds another disruptive piece to the defensive line.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #30 - TEAM BLUE</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1272161' first='Jeremiah' last='Lyles'] - 2027 Huntington DL</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Interior production and leverage win out here. Lyles may not have ideal length, but he plays with bend, quickness, and a low pad level that creates problems inside. With the ability to contribute on the offensive line as well, Team Gold adds a disruptive interior presence who brings versatility and effort.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #31 - TEAM BLUE </strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1716366' first='Tramel' last='Musgrove'] - 2029 South Charleston EDGE</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>You're betting on traits and long-term upside here. Musgrove is already a varsity starter with a 6'4 frame, athletic profile, and early D1 interest, which is rare at this stage. As he continues to develop physically, Team Blue adds a high-ceiling edge prospect who could grow into a disruptive presence.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PICK #32 - TEAM GOLD </strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1624328' first='Travon' last='Okonkwo'] - 2028 Huntington ATH</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Traits and versatility drive this pick to close out the first round. Okonkwo projects well at OLB as his frame develops. With his athleticism and positional flexibility, Team Gold adds a developmental piece who can fill multiple roles down the line.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->