Matt Gahm played in seven of Virginia football’s 13 games last season, primarily on special teams. With starter Chris Peace on the sideline this past spring, the 6’3”, 225-pound outside linebacker emerged, earning recognition from head coach Bronco Mendenhall for his play.

“Matt is an effort player that is really disciplined,” Mendenhall said this past spring. “He’s diligent. He’s disciplined and he’s trust-worthy and he does exactly what you ask at the speed you ask him to do it. That’s earned trust with us over time because of that.”

The Dallas (TX) native has continued to progress during fall camp. While he may not be a starter, Gahm has made the two-deep at outside linebacker as the senior Peace’s backup. It’s not a stretch to think that the former Highland Park High School standout could assume Peace’s starting role next season, providing Mendenhall with what he wants at each position – a clear succession plan.

I spoke with Gahm following Virginia’s August 17 camp, and we discussed his development, how he feels about his college choice, his goals on and off the field, Micah Kiser and more.

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