In a significant boost to their 2025 recruiting class, the West Virginia University (WVU) Mountaineers have secured a commitment from four-star cornerback Dawayne Galloway Jr. Galloway, a standout at Marion-Franklin High School in Columbus, Ohio, had previously committed to Purdue University in July 2024 but reopened his recruitment in October.
Standing at 6 feet and weighing 170 pounds, Galloway is recognized for his exceptional speed, boasting a 4.3-second 40-yard dash. During his senior year, he demonstrated versatility by contributing on both offense and defense, recording 16 touchdowns and 1,478 all-purpose yards. Defensively, he amassed 37 tackles, two interceptions (one returned for a touchdown), and three pass breakups, notably not allowing a passing touchdown throughout the season.
Galloway’s decommitment from Purdue was influenced by the firing of head coach Ryan Walters, who was dismissed after compiling a 5-19 record over two seasons. Following his decommitment, Galloway received renewed interest from several programs, including West Virginia, Kentucky, Penn State, and Colorado.
WVU’s recruitment efforts were led by interim defensive coordinator Jeff Koonz and defensive backs coach ShaDon Brown. Galloway had previously visited WVU in June, and the coaching staff’s persistence paid off when he signed his National Letter of Intent with the Mountaineers on December 4, 2024.
Galloway’s addition is a significant coup for WVU, especially considering the program’s current transition without a permanent head coach. His commitment not only bolsters the Mountaineers’ secondary but also enhances the overall strength of their 2025 recruiting class. Galloway’s decision reflects his confidence in WVU’s program and its future direction, signaling a positive outlook for the Mountaineers as they continue to build a competitive roster for the upcoming seasons.
