**WVU Football News: Neal Brown Targeted by CFP Team, Rodriguez Working Out ‘Softness’ in Spring, and More**
**MORGANTOWN, W.Va.** – The West Virginia University football program is already making headlines this offseason with some intriguing developments as the spring season kicks off. From head coach Neal Brown being targeted by a potential College Football Playoff (CFP) contender to standout player improvements, here’s the latest from Mountaineer football.
### **Neal Brown Draws Attention from CFP Team**
West Virginia’s head coach Neal Brown, now entering his sixth season, has sparked the interest of a top-tier College Football Playoff (CFP) contender following a successful 2024 campaign. Sources have indicated that a powerhouse program, which has a solid shot at CFP contention next season, is considering Brown as a potential coaching candidate for their team.
While details of the potential opening remain under wraps, Brown’s success at WVU, especially his ability to develop talent and lead the team to consistent bowl appearances, has caught the eye of several major programs. The speculation comes as Brown prepares to build on last season’s successes and lead the Mountaineers through another challenging Big 12 campaign.
WVU fans and administrators will be closely watching this development as Brown’s future in Morgantown could be up in the air if a lucrative and high-profile offer materializes. For now, Brown’s focus is squarely on improving the Mountaineers for the 2025 season, hoping to continue his upward trajectory.
### **Rodriguez Focuses on ‘Softness’ in Spring Workouts**
One of the most talked-about players this offseason is running back **CJ Rodriguez**, who is entering a crucial spring practice period. Following a strong but inconsistent 2024 campaign, Rodriguez has put a premium on improving his physicality, describing his biggest area of focus as addressing what he calls his “softness” on the field.
The 5’11”, 215-pound junior has the raw talent to be one of the Big 12’s top running backs, but has often struggled with breaking tackles and maintaining consistency throughout games. Head coach Neal Brown has praised Rodriguez’s effort and focus this offseason, emphasizing the importance of the running back’s improvement for the overall success of the offense.
Rodriguez has reportedly spent significant time in the weight room and with the coaching staff, working on strengthening his lower body and explosiveness. As the Mountaineers look to establish a more balanced attack this season, Rodriguez’s development could be the key to unlocking their full potential.
### **Spring Practice Highlights**
Spring practice is underway in Morgantown, and several players are making waves as they battle for starting positions ahead of the 2025 season. Among the top performers in early drills are defensive linemen **Jalen Bridges** and **Zacarius Hardy**, who have both shown significant improvement in their conditioning and technique. The defensive line has been a point of emphasis for the Mountaineers, and both Bridges and Hardy have impressed coaches with their ability to disrupt plays at the line of scrimmage.
At quarterback, **Garrett Greene** continues to lead the charge, with sophomore **Aiden Smith** pushing for more reps and competition. Greene, coming off a solid season, has worked hard to fine-tune his accuracy, while Smith has earned praise for his progression and sharp decision-making during early spring scrimmages.
On the receiving side, **Devin Carter** has quickly become a go-to target for the quarterbacks. After a strong finish to 2024, Carter has taken on a leadership role within the receiving corps and looks poised for a breakout season.
### **A Look Ahead: Recruiting and Upcoming Schedule**
As for recruiting, Neal Brown and his staff are focusing on bolstering the team’s depth, especially along the offensive and defensive lines. Several key recruits are expected to visit Morgantown in the coming months, with Brown hoping to land commitments that will provide immediate contributions in the 2025 season.
Looking ahead, WVU’s spring game is set for April 19, and fans are eagerly awaiting a chance to see the team’s progression firsthand. The Mountaineers will face a tough schedule in the fall, with matchups against conference foes like Texas and Oklahoma looming large.
For now, though, the focus is on spring drills, player development, and preparing for another challenging season in the Big 12. As always, Mountaineer fans will be eagerly watching as their team works to build on last year’s foundation and push toward greater success in 2025.