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Should WVU Football Bring Back the Don Nehlen Era Uniforms?
A uniform refresh isn't coming soon, but fans are clamoring for the classic 1988 look to make a comeback.
Mar. 29, 2026 at 3:07pm
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A cubist interpretation of West Virginia football's storied past, hinting at the potential return of the program's classic uniforms.Tempe TodayWest Virginia football fans are hoping the program will bring back the popular uniforms from the Don Nehlen era, which featured a clean, classic look with no jersey stripes and block numbering. The current uniforms, introduced in 2024, are already close to that aesthetic, with only minor differences in the helmet and pants. While a full throwback set may lose some of its nostalgia factor, fans are eager for WVU to recapture the iconic look that was worn during the team's glory days under Nehlen.
Why it matters
Uniforms hold deep meaning for many college football fans, who often associate certain looks with a program's most successful eras. Bringing back the Don Nehlen-era uniforms could tap into that sense of nostalgia and pride, while also aligning with the current athletic department's focus on honoring the school's history and traditions.
The details
The Mountaineers' current uniforms, introduced in 2024, already feature several elements of the classic 1988 look, including the plain helmets and pants. Adding the jersey design with the block numbering and lack of stripes would complete the throwback aesthetic. While a full throwback set may lose some of its novelty, fans are eager for WVU to recapture the iconic look that was worn during the team's glory days under Nehlen.
- The 40-year anniversary of the 1988 uniforms is coming up in two years.
- WVU recently updated its practice jerseys to closely resemble the 1988 look.
The players
Wren Baker
The West Virginia athletic director, who is known to be a uniform enthusiast and has overseen the introduction of throwback uniforms in other sports.
Tobi Haastrup
A West Virginia pass rusher who posted a photo of the team's new practice jerseys, which closely resemble the 1988 uniforms.
What they’re saying
“These new practice jerseys REALLY make me want 1988 throwbacks! Honestly, we're already so close, the current helmets and pants are nearly identical (just a few small differences). All we would need is just to order the jerseys.”
— WVUniforms304, Twitter account tracking West Virginia uniforms
What’s next
The West Virginia athletic department could potentially unveil a 1988-inspired uniform set in time for the 40-year anniversary of that iconic look in two years.
The takeaway
Bringing back the classic Don Nehlen-era uniforms would tap into West Virginia football's rich history and tradition, while also aligning with the current athletic department's focus on honoring the program's past. With the current uniforms already closely resembling that iconic look, a full throwback set could be a popular move with the fanbase.
