The Virginia football team continued its transfer portal hot streak on Friday as it added a commitment for the ninth time. The latest pickup came on the defensive side of the ball as Eastern Kentucky linebacker Maddox Marcellus made the call for the Cavaliers. He visited UVA this week.

Marcellus announced his decision on social media.

With this addition, Virginia has now added a player on every level of the defense. Marcellus is the first linebacker for UVA in this portal cycle. The Hoos added Fresno State defensive tackle Jacob Holmes and Elon defensive end Cazeem Moore to the defensive line. They've also secured commitments from Louisville safety Devin Neal and Morgan State corner Ja'Son Prevard in the secondary.

The 6'3", 225-pound linebacker had plenty of suitors in the portal. Houston, Memphis, California, Iowa State, Marshall, Kansas State, Indiana, and Michigan State all are examples of teams with reported offers. He visited Houston and UVA.

A strong sophomore season with Eastern Kentucky led to that attention. Marcellus piled up 97 tackles (7 tackles for loss) this season with 2 interceptions, 2 forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery. That fumble recovery turned into a 23-yard touchdown return against Utah Tech. He earned All-United Athletic Conference honors as a unanimous selection. He led EKU in tackles and finished fifth in the same category in the UAC.

This commitment adds depth to the linebacker room, which had some injury concerns in 2024. Marcellus gives Virginia a solid trio of linebackers with two years of eligibility still remaining. Both Kam Robinson, who finished second on the team with 64 tackles this fall, and Trey McDonald, who landed third with 58, also have two seasons still available.

Marcellus will join the program in January and be available for spring practice.

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