Image Source: Anna Thomas
Key Takeaways:
- The Virginia Cavaliers have opened the new year with a record-setting football season, earning their first 11-win season in program history.
- The college football transfer portal is open, and Virginia’s Tony Elliott and general manager Tyler Jones are approaching the quick recruitment window with a focus on proven player ability and program fit.
- Six Virginia football players have earned CSC Academic All-District Honors, including Will Bettridge, Sage Ennis, Grant Ellinger, Noah Hartsoe, Hunter Osborne, and Brady Wilson.
- J’Mari Taylor and Sage Ennis have declared for the 2026 NFL Draft, while linebacker Trey McDonald is entering the transfer portal.
- The No. 21 UVA basketball team fell to Virginia Tech in triple overtime, despite strong performances from Malik Thomas and Thijs de Ridder.
Introduction to the New Year
The Virginia Cavaliers have kicked off the new year with a bang, earning their first 11-win season in program history after beating the Missouri Tigers 13-7 in the 2025 Gator Bowl. This achievement is a testament to the team’s hard work and dedication, and it sets the tone for an exciting year of sports at the University of Virginia. As noted by the team, "production" is key when it comes to recruiting new players, but it’s not the only factor – program and team fit are also crucial. As the college football transfer portal opens, Virginia’s Tony Elliott and general manager Tyler Jones are approaching the quick recruitment window with a focus on proven player ability and program fit.
The Transfer Portal
The college football transfer portal is a critical period for teams to recruit new players and fill gaps in their roster. This year, the portal is only open for two weeks, from January 2 to January 16, which means that recruiting staff have to act quickly to secure commitments. As Elliott and Jones noted, "one of the biggest lessons from last year’s transfer portal wins was proven player ability – instead of betting on player potential." However, they also emphasized the importance of finding players who fit with the team’s culture and values. With the short window, the recruiting staff relies heavily on their relationships with agents and agencies to get the job done.
Academic Honors
In addition to their athletic achievements, several Virginia football players have also excelled in the classroom. Six players, including Will Bettridge, Sage Ennis, Grant Ellinger, Noah Hartsoe, Hunter Osborne, and Brady Wilson, have earned CSC Academic All-District Honors. To be eligible for this recognition, undergraduates must have a cumulative 3.5 grade point average (on a 4.0 scale), be at least a sophomore, and play in the majority of their team’s games. As College Sports Communications (CSC) noted, these players have demonstrated a "commitment to academic excellence" and are "excellent representatives of their institutions."
NFL Draft and Transfer Portal
Two Virginia football players, J’Mari Taylor and Sage Ennis, have declared for the 2026 NFL Draft. Taylor, a running back, had a standout season with the Cavaliers, rushing over 1,000 yards and earning first-team All-ACC honors. Ennis, a tight end, had 23 receptions, 214 yards, and five touchdowns. Meanwhile, linebacker Trey McDonald is entering the transfer portal after three years at Virginia, with one year of eligibility remaining. As Ennis noted on his social media page, "I’m excited to take the next step in my football career and pursue my dreams in the NFL."
Basketball Update
The No. 21 UVA basketball team suffered a tough loss to Virginia Tech in triple overtime, despite strong performances from Malik Thomas and Thijs de Ridder. The game was a back-and-forth affair, with the ‘Hoos holding a 24-23 lead at halftime. However, poor shooting in the first half and a series of buzzer-beating plays ultimately led to the team’s downfall. As coach Tony Bennett noted, "we had our chances, but we just couldn’t capitalize on them." The team is looking to bounce back from the loss and make a strong push in the ACC.
Other News
In other news, Virginia basketball legend Dawn Staley returned to Grounds just before the holidays and made an appearance at JPJ and across athletic programs. Staley, a former UVA player and coach, is a highly respected figure in the basketball world and was welcomed back with open arms by the university community. Additionally, UVA wrestling coach Steve Garland is celebrating 200 career wins, a milestone that marks his success and dedication to the program. As Garland noted, "it’s an honor to have reached this milestone, and I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to work with so many talented athletes over the years."
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