“Zachary Washington Talks West Virginia Visit, Sets Sights on WVU Return”

Zachary Washington Talks West Virginia Visit, Sets Sights on WVU Return Zachary Washington’s recent trip to Morgantown stirred speculation and excitement throughout Mountaineer Nation. The former 4-star quarterback recruit, who once lit up high school highlight reels with his mobility and cannon arm, returned to West Virginia University this weekend on what many are calling a “sentimental scouting mission.” Now 23, Washington had transferred out of WVU two years ago in search of more playing time but has recently expressed interest in a return — not just to the field, but to the team that first believed in him.“I never stopped loving this place,” Washington said in an exclusive sit-down. “Walking through the facilities again, seeing the Blue Lot tailgaters prepping even on a Thursday — it felt like I never left.”Washington originally committed to WVU in 2020, entering a program in transition. His freshman year saw limited playing time behind a crowded quarterback room, and despite flashes of brilliance during mop-up duty, he entered the transfer portal after his sophomore season, citing “a need for game reps and a fresh start.” After stints at two smaller programs — most recently leading Prairie Tech to a 9-3 record — Washington is now a free agent, thanks to a combination of eligibility quirks and an NCAA ruling that might as well be called “The Bonus Year for Quarterbacks We Can’t Bear to Say Goodbye To.”What’s changed? According to Washington, it’s both personal and football-related. “There’s unfinished business here,” he said, gesturing toward Milan Puskar Stadium. “I want to be the one who brings that Big 12 title back to Morgantown. Not just because it would be historic — but because this is where I feel I was supposed to be all along.”Insiders say WVU head coach Jared Hollins is open to the possibility. “Zachary’s a grown man now,” Hollins told reporters. “He’s not the same kid who left. He’s taken hits, led locker rooms, and shown maturity under pressure. If he wants to compete — and we believe it’s a good fit — then why not?”Washington’s visit included a tour of the new player development center, a film session with offensive coordinator Mike Barrett, and an impromptu meet-up with several current players, including wide receiver Tayvon Fields, who was reportedly “very enthusiastic” about the idea of catching passes from a quarterback with such a deep ball.The NCAA transfer rules — in their infinite complexity — may still present some hurdles, but sources close to the program say Washington could be cleared for a return as early as summer workouts. If all goes according to plan, the Mountaineers may see a familiar face under center next fall, armed with experience, humility, and a mission.When asked what it would mean to wear the gold and blue again, Washington didn’t hesitate. “It would mean everything,” he said, his voice steady. “I’ve been to other places. I’ve seen other teams. But this — this is home. And I think the best chapters of my story might still be written right here.”