Inside Mountaineers: A Renounced Player’s Future at WVU Hangs in the Balance After Shocking Staff Shakeup 

Inside Mountaineers: A Renounced Player’s Future at WVU Hangs in the Balance After Shocking Staff Shakeup

West Virginia head football coach Neal Brown’s recent decision to part ways with his defensive coordinator, Jordan Lesley, has sparked speculation regarding his own future with the Mountaineers. Fans and analysts alike are debating whether this major staff adjustment is a sign that Brown himself could be nearing an exit or if it represents an opportunity for him to prove his leadership and secure another year at the helm.

CBS Sports college football analyst Bud Elliott recently shared his perspective on the Cover 3 Podcast, suggesting that the move doesn’t necessarily mean Brown is on the way out. Elliott explained that such mid-season coordinator changes often signal a team’s intent to evaluate internal staff, potentially positioning an existing assistant for a promotion, or to seek a new approach from outside. This is especially common when a coach is under pressure but has yet to reach the tipping point with university leadership. According to Elliott, in cases like Brown’s, replacing a coordinator might be less about preparing for a full coaching overhaul and more about seeing if someone else within the organization could better manage the defensive responsibilities.

Neal Brown’s loyalty to his staff, especially through his promotion of Jordan Lesley to defensive coordinator in 2020, is also a contributing factor. Lesley’s defense has struggled this season, prompting Brown to act, but instead of parting ways with his entire staff, Brown may be testing new options to stabilize the team. Elliott mentioned that scenarios like these typically arise from either a need to address serious performance issues or to audition another staff member, evaluating their potential to lead in a higher capacity.

With Brown under mounting scrutiny from fans due to inconsistent team performance, this decision may be his way of showcasing adaptability and securing his own job for 2025. The next few games could be crucial for Brown, as the Mountaineers’ administration will likely assess the impact of this change and decide whether the team is moving in a positive direction. If West Virginia’s defense shows improvement, it may signal that Brown’s adjustments were effective, potentially solidifying his case to remain head coach.

Ultimately, while the recent shakeup may leave Brown’s position uncertain, it also provides him a last chance to steer the Mountaineers back on course. How his staff responds could determine whether this is a turning point or the beginning of the end for Brown in Morgantown.