Virginia beats out Wisconsin for running back from Lexington, Ky.

By Jerry Ratcliffe

It was no surprise that Lexington, Ky., running back Xavier Brown chose Virginia as his future football home on Thursday afternoon.

Brown, who visited UVA a month ago, was impressed by the Cavaliers “family atmosphere” within the program. When Lexington Christian Academy coach Doug Charles introduced Brown and his family at the announcement party, Charles was wearing an LCA t-shirt that read “Family” across his chest.

Brown chose the Cavaliers over Wisconsin, after eliminating several offers from his list: Maryland, West Virginia, Boston College, Air Force, Liberty, Western Kentucky and Eastern Kentucky.

At 5-foot-11, 180 pounds, Brown is a 3-star running back heading into his senior year for the War Eagles. Blessed with 4.5 speed, he accounted for 1,326 all-purpose yards last season: 449 rushing (8 TD), 877 receiving (45 catches, 9 TD).

“I would like to thank my teammates for all the support they’ve given me over the years and provided me another family,” said an emotional Brown during his announcement. “Lastly but not least, I’d like to thank my parents for the many sacrifices they’ve given to help reach my goals and put me in the position I am in today. Thank you both for being great influences on this process. I’ve learned that when it comes to families, they come first.”

After a brief video of Brown, he announced his commitment to Virginia with his entire family donning Virginia t-shirts.

Brown is rated the No. 10 player in Kentucky. He was named All-City in 2018, 2019 and 2020.

We will add to this story as the evening progresses.