The Virginia football team stayed on the defensive side of the ball for its latest Class of 2026 recruit. The Cavaliers picked up a commitment from Ohio linebacker Derek Uran on Wednesday, the sixth player to select the Hoos so far in this cycle.

Uran announced his decision on social media.

The 6’2”, 195-pound rising senior had multiple offers over the last year. That started with mostly in-state schools with Toledo, Kent State, Ohio, Bowling Green, Miami of Ohio, and Cincinnati all extending opportunities. Uran originally committed to Cincinnati in February, but picked up the Virginia offer in April. He took an official visit to UVA earlier in June and then flipped his commitment this week.

Uran received a 3-star rating from the 247 Sports, Rivals, and On3. 247 Sports marked Uran as the No. 61 prospect in Ohio, while On3 has him at No. 43. He joins five other 3-star commitments this recruiting cycle. Quarterback Ely Hamrick, offensive lineman Michael Gildea, and offensive lineman Dylan Biehl are three prospects on offense, while Uran, cornerback Alex Dunn, and safety Jordan Vann have committed on defense.

While listed as a linebacker, Uran has qualities and experience that UVA defensive coordinator John Rudzinski should like in his schemes. As a sophomore, Uran played cornerback initially before shifting into a rover type role that uses a blend of linebacker and safety principles. Virginia, of course, frequently deploys a system with a similar hybrid player on the field as part of 3-safety lineups. Uran also participated in track (hurdles).

This meets what could be a position of need in the 2026 recruiting class, pending future use of the transfer portal for linebackers. The Cavaliers’ roster includes James Jackson in his final year of eligibility along with other upperclassman that could finish out their careers during Uran’s true freshman season.

Check out Uran's highlights on his Hudl profile.

Discuss it on the message board