As of this writing, 6’5”, 295-pound Jake Fieler, a redshirt freshman, is penciled in as Virginia’s starting right tackle. If the depth chart holds, Fieler would supplant Eric Smith, who started all 12 games last season.

After graduating from Parkersburg South High School in West Virginia in May of 2013, Fieler attended Fork Union Military Academy (VA), where he played under longtime postgraduate head coach John Shuman. He drew major college attention as a result of his performance in the fall of 2013, receiving several major FBS offers including one from UVa. Fieler chose Virginia over Cincinnati and Southern Mississippi and enrolled on Grounds for the spring semester 2014. Playing as a true freshman last season certainly seemed like a possibility, but Fieler ultimately redshirted in 2014.

With the FUMA postgrad experience, two stints of spring practice, and everything he learned while redshirting, Fieler is one of the more experienced redshirt freshman you’ll find. The UVa coaches have played the versatile standout at every offensive line position except for center, but Fieler has settled in at right tackle.

Fieler discussed his starting role, new offensive line coach Dave Borbely, and many other topics including…

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