Derek Uran is making headlines with his decision to switch his commitment from his hometown Cincinnati to the University of Virginia, joining the Cavaliers’ ranks. His visit to the Virginia campus, affectionately known as “Grounds,” clearly made a lasting impression on the Cincinnati (OH) Elder linebacker. This flip comes after Uran initially committed to Cincinnati but now finds the allure of Virginia too compelling to resist.
Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 190 pounds, Uran is an active and dynamic defender who’s been turning heads with his on-field performances. His junior season was nothing short of impressive, racking up 75 tackles, with 12.5 of those being for a loss. Add in 9.5 sacks, a pair of interceptions—one of which he took to the house—and three forced fumbles, and it’s clear why Uran has been a sought-after prospect.
Allen Trieu, a Midwest analyst for 247, weighed in on Uran’s potential, praising his speed at a recent conference combine where he dashed through with a time of 4.43 seconds in the 40-yard dash. Trieu noted Uran’s versatility and ability to cover ground efficiently, highlighting how his background as a safety evolving into a linebacker fits the mold of what college programs covet today—defenders who are as comfortable in open space as they are in the trenches.
While Uran’s decision might be a pivot towards Virginia, his journey to this point involved a host of other collegiate interests. Before his initial Cincinnati commitment, he entertained offers from programs like Kent State, Bowling Green, Toledo, and Central Michigan, among others. It’s clear that Derek Uran is a talent on the rise, and his move to Virginia is set to add a dynamic dimension to the Cavaliers’ defense. Keep an eye on this defender—he’s got the skills and savvy to make an impact in the seasons to come.
