Thanks to a pledge from linebacker prospect Jairus Satiu, Virginia football now has six verbal commitments in the class of 2019. In addition to Satiu, the Cavaliers class includes running back/H-back Seneca Milledge, receivers Dorien Goddard and Tiquest Terry, and defensive backs Major Williams and Antonio Clary. What other positions might Bronco Mendenhall target in his third full recruiting cycle as UVA head coach? Our latest “Strategy Session” is here to help.

Let’s first break down the projected 2019 season roster, scholarship players only. Combining the projected returning scholarship players as well as the six commits, the scholarship tally for 2019 currently stands at 74. If this number holds, Virginia would be left with 11 scholarships available to use. The number won’t hold, though, because there is always attrition (would-be 5th-year seniors not invited back, injuries, etc.). Estimating 10% attrition, there should be 18 scholarship spots currently available to use in the 2019 season.

Coach Mendenhall has utilized the grad-transfer market consistently since his arrival. He added quarterback Kurt Benkert ahead of the 2016 season, offensive linemen John Montelus and Brandon Pertile ahead of 2017, and offensive lineman Marcus Applefield and defensive lineman Dylan Thompson ahead of 2018. Look for him to leave a spot or two open for grad-transfers next year as well. If he does, look for Virginia to take about 22 recruits in total in the class of 2019.

Virginia has addressed the offense so far with a running back/wide receiver hybrid and two likely wide receivers. Defensively, the Hoos have a linebacker, a likely safety and a likely cornerback. Looking ahead, the defensive and offensive lines appear to be the biggest needs in this class.

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