Brandel’s value is in the dirty work: steady depth, special teams grit, and hometown toughness at WVU
Donald Brandel is a West Virginia linebacker who has been more of a reliable depth piece than a stat-sheet monster, with roster notes showing action in five games in 2024 and a season-high 10 special teams snaps at Oklahoma.[2] What makes him interesting is the combo platter: in-state pedigree, captain experience at University High, 300-plus career high school tackles, and a reputation for doing the unglamorous stuff that coaches love.[2][3] He looks like a culture fit more than a headline grabber—high-motor, academically steady, and useful if a team wants toughness, special teams utility, and a no-drama linebacker room.[2][6]
