Wyatt Milum: The Rising Star of WVU’s Offensive Line

MORGANTOWN, WV — The West Virginia Mountaineers have a knack for producing top-tier football talent, and Wyatt Milum is the latest name to emerge from this storied tradition. With Zach Frazier now headed to the NFL, all eyes are on Milum, who is rapidly establishing himself as one of the best left tackles in college football.

In 2023, Milum showcased his remarkable skills and consistency, earning him a spot among the nation’s elite. Pro Football Focus ranks him as the fifth-best returning left tackle, trailing only standout players from LSU, Texas, USC, and Oregon. Last season, Milum allowed zero sacks, zero quarterback hits, and just nine pressures on 337 pass block snaps.

“Milum has been a starter for all three of his years in Morgantown, spending his freshman campaign at right tackle before moving to left tackle for the past two seasons. His 74.2 pass-blocking grade in 2021 ranked second among true freshman Power Five tackles,” noted Max Chadwick of PFF. “Since Milum flipped to left tackle in 2022, his 82.5 grade is a top-15 mark among all tackles in college football. This past season, his 89.6 pass-blocking grade on true pass sets placed second among FBS tackles, ranking behind only Houston’s Patrick Paul.”

Milum’s talent has not gone unnoticed. On3 named him the 14th best player in college football for 2024, highlighting his significance on the national stage. Milum has played in 35 career games for the Mountaineers, and he’s set to be the centerpiece of an offensive line aiming to be among the best in the Big 12 once again.

Looking ahead, Milum’s future is bright. CBS Sports’ first 2025 mock draft projects him as the 24th overall pick in the first round. Draft expert Ryan Wilson described Milum as “an athletic tackle who plays with good technique as both a run and pass blocker,” emphasizing his potential to elevate his game even further in 2024.

As the Mountaineers gear up for the upcoming season, Milum’s leadership and experience will be vital. His journey from a true freshman starter to a key player projected to be a first-round NFL draft pick mirrors the path of the sport’s best offensive linemen. Should he meet these lofty expectations, Milum would become the first Mountaineer selected in the first round since safety Karl Joseph in 2016.

The Mountaineers’ 2024 season kicks off on August 31 against Penn State, offering fans their first look at what could be a historic year for Milum and the team. With WVU supporters eagerly anticipating the season, all eyes will be on Wyatt Milum, poised to leave a lasting legacy in Morgantown and beyond.