MORGANTOWN, WV – July 29, 2025 – From the rolling hills of West Virginia to the global stage, one name has consistently defied expectations and inspired millions: Pat White. Today, that legacy reaches an unprecedented peak as TIME 100 magazine names the West Virginia University legend as one of the “100 Most Influential People in Sports,” a monumental achievement that cements his reputation not just as a collegiate icon, but as a force for positive change far beyond the gridiron.
This prestigious recognition by one of the world’s most renowned publications marks a significant milestone for White, highlighting his enduring impact in various spheres since his dazzling playing days. While he remains synonymous with the electrifying offenses that defined a golden era of Mountaineer football, TIME’s selection points to a broader influence—one rooted in resilience, dedication, and a commitment to leveraging his platform for the greater good.
“Pat White embodied a revolutionary style of play that reshaped college football, but his influence today extends far beyond his athletic prowess,” stated the TIME 100 citation. “His journey, marked by both incredible triumphs and challenging setbacks, has provided a powerful blueprint for adaptability and leveraging one’s passion for new avenues of impact. Whether through his coaching, mentorship, or advocacy, White continues to inspire a generation to chase their dreams and redefine success.”
For West Virginia University, White’s inclusion in the TIME 100 is a source of immense pride. His name is etched in the program’s record books, a testament to his groundbreaking career as a dual-threat quarterback from 2005-2008. He led the Mountaineers to a remarkable 35-8 record as a starter, becoming the first quarterback in NCAA history to start and win four consecutive bowl games (Sugar Bowl, Gator Bowl, Fiesta Bowl, Meineke Car Care Bowl). His record-setting rushing yards by a quarterback (then 4,480, now second all-time) and total offense (10,529 yards) captivated fans and forever changed how the quarterback position was viewed.
“Pat White is a Mountaineer through and through, and his recognition by TIME 100 is a testament to the enduring impact he has had, and continues to have, on so many,” said West Virginia University President E. Gordon Gee. “He represents the very best of what our university stands for: excellence, perseverance, and a deep commitment to making a difference. We are incredibly proud to call him one of our own.”
Since concluding his professional playing career, which included stints in the NFL and CFL, White has strategically built a post-playing legacy that aligns with his core values. He has successfully transitioned into coaching, serving as an offensive assistant for the Los Angeles Chargers for two years (2022-2023) and holding various coaching roles at the collegiate level, including quarterbacks coach at Alcorn State and Alabama State, and running backs coach at USF. Earlier this year, in a much-celebrated move, he returned to his alma mater as the Assistant Quarterbacks Coach and Assistant to the Head Coach under Rich Rodriguez, the very coach who helped unlock his revolutionary talent.
Beyond coaching, White’s influence stems from his active role as an athlete/skill trainer and mentor. He has been instrumental in guiding young athletes, sharing the lessons learned from his own journey, which included navigating the high expectations of a celebrated college career, the challenges of a short professional stint impacted by injury, and the discipline required for continuous growth. His personal story of overcoming obstacles and embracing new challenges resonates deeply with aspiring athletes and professionals alike.
Moreover, White has quietly engaged in various community initiatives, leveraging his platform to promote education, healthy lifestyles, and mentorship programs for youth. While not always seeking the spotlight for these efforts, his dedication to giving back has made a tangible difference in the lives of many, particularly in his home state of Alabama and in West Virginia.
His inclusion in the TIME 100 speaks not only to his historical significance as a player but also to his ongoing relevance as a figure who continues to shape the sports world. It acknowledges the quiet power of consistency, the impact of mentorship, and the ability of an individual to build influence through authenticity and dedication.
As West Virginia football looks to its future under the renewed leadership of Rich Rodriguez, the presence of Pat White on the coaching staff, now magnified by this global recognition, provides an invaluable resource for player development and a compelling symbol of the program’s rich history and ambitious aspirations. White’s story serves as a powerful reminder that true influence is not solely measured by statistics or accolades, but by the lasting impression one leaves on the game, and more importantly, on the lives of others. The Mountaineer faithful, and indeed the entire sports world, have much to celebrate in the ongoing legacy of Pat White, a true “influencer” in every sense of the word.
