The Cavalier Connection: Everything Jacquie Franciulli Said About Fall Camp & the 2025 Hoos

Kam Robinson Injury Update

The biggest fan concern right now centers on linebacker Kam Robinson. Franciulli confirmed he has missed the last two practices due to injury, but it’s not season-ending.

“It’s something that could keep him out a few weeks, but nothing like the long-term injuries to guys like Makilan Thomas or Monroe Mills,” Franciulli said. “It’s still one to monitor with the season coming up.”

Building Competitive Depth

Perhaps the most encouraging change is Virginia’s improved depth across the board. Under Tony Elliott, the drop-off from first-string to backups has been a consistent problem. This offseason, the staff went after proven transfers and experienced players to shore up that gap.

“Now you’ve got young players like Josiah Abdullah, Josiah Persinger, and Corey Costner earning time because they’re talented — not because the guy ahead of them is hurt,” Franciulli explained. “It’s a very different situation from past years.”

Even along the offensive line — an area hammered by injuries — Virginia has options. Right tackle remains a battle between Wallace Unamba and Ben York, with others like Jack Whitmer and Tyshawn Wyatt in the mix. “These are recruited, experienced players, not emergency walk-on options,” she said.

Stability at Quarterback

For the first time in years, there’s no quarterback controversy. Chandler Morris was named the starter early and has embraced the role. Freshman Daniel Kaelin is developing without pressure to start.

“There’s no animosity,” Franciulli said. “Morris knows the job is his, and Kaelin knows this is his growth year. In the transfer portal world, that’s rare.”

Morris has impressed teammates with his leadership and command of the offense, turning what had been an undefined unit into one with an identity: explosive.

The Consistency Challenge

Coaches have been preaching one word: consistency. From Cam Ross at wide receiver to Brady Wilson at center, certain players have answered the call. Others are still working toward it.

“Tony Elliott’s been loud about it — literally,” Franciulli laughed. “One practice ended with a lot of running and some very colorful reminders about how practice habits translate to game day.”

Position Battles to Watch

The secondary may be the most wide-open competition in camp. Nine transfer DBs joined the roster, but injuries have kept the projected starters from playing together. That’s opened doors for freshmen like Josiah Persinger and for transfers like Jordan Robinson.

Up front, the offensive line’s right tackle and right guard spots remain unsettled, with depth pieces like Kevin Wigenton and Tyshawn Wyatt pushing for time. Running back features a clear top two in J'Mari Taylor and Xavier Brown, but the RB3 role between Noah Vaughn and Harrison Waylee is still being sorted out.

Wide Receiver Depth and Playmaking

Virginia’s receiver room may be one of the most quietly loaded position groups on the roster. Cam Ross returns as the veteran presence, while younger targets like Malik Washington’s replacement candidates have stepped up in camp.

Freshman speedster Josiah Abdullah continues to make waves, and transfer pickups have added both size and athleticism. “They’ve got guys who can stretch the field, and Chandler Morris isn’t afraid to let it fly,” Franciulli said.

Tight end play has also been a focal point, with Josh Rawlings providing a reliable target and blocking help. It’s a group that’s finally showing the versatility offensive coordinator Des Kitchings has been seeking.

Team Chemistry and Leadership

One of the most notable changes from past camps is the genuine camaraderie within the team. Franciulli pointed out that leadership isn’t just coming from veterans — newcomers are stepping into vocal roles as well.

“It feels more cohesive,” she said. “Even with so many transfers and freshmen, there’s a shared sense of purpose. That’s not something you always see after heavy roster turnover.”

Morris’s leadership at quarterback has been central to this, with players buying into his command of the huddle.

The Road Ahead

While there’s optimism, Franciulli emphasized the importance of consistency — the theme Tony Elliott has drilled into players since spring. The schedule sets up favorably, but there’s little room for sloppy execution.

If Virginia can keep its core healthy, avoid the early-season slow starts that have plagued past teams, and maintain the competitive edge developing in camp, 2025 could be a breakthrough year.

Bottom Line:
Depth is no longer just a buzzword in Charlottesville — it’s showing up in real competition at nearly every position. With a settled quarterback situation, improved roster balance, and a locker room buying into the vision, this UVA team feels different. Whether that translates to wins in the fall remains to be seen, but the foundation is clearly stronger than in years past.

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