UVA Football Kicks Off Spring Game

New starters expected at key positions as Cavaliers wrap up spring practice

Apr. 17, 2026 at 2:37pm

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting in a cubist style, breaking down a college football game into sharp, overlapping geometric planes of deep blue, forest green, and burnt orange, without any recognizable faces, logos, or other identifiable elements.A cubist interpretation of the energy and action of a college football spring game, capturing the sport's dynamic movements and competitive spirit through a fragmented, geometric lens.Charlottesville Today

The University of Virginia football team will hold its annual spring game on Saturday, giving fans a first look at the team's new starters at quarterback, running back, wide receiver, and cornerback. With several key players departing from last year's record-breaking 11-win squad, head coach Tony Elliott is looking to build an identity with this year's workmanlike group.

Why it matters

The spring game provides an important opportunity for UVA to evaluate its roster and identify emerging playmakers as the Cavaliers look to build on their breakthrough 2025 season. With new faces expected at several high-profile positions, Saturday's scrimmage will offer valuable insight into the team's direction heading into the fall.

The details

Saturday's spring game will feature a modified scoring system, with the offense able to earn points through traditional means like touchdowns and field goals, while the defense can get on the board by forcing turnovers, three-and-outs, and punts. Quarterbacks will not be live, meaning the defense will not be allowed to hit the signal callers, who are expected to be either Missouri transfer Beau Pribula or Pittsburgh transfer Eli Holstein.

  • The spring game will take place on Saturday, April 19, 2026.
  • It will be the 15th and final practice of UVA's spring session.

The players

Tony Elliott

The fifth-year head coach of the Virginia Cavaliers football team.

Beau Pribula

Missouri transfer expected to compete for the starting quarterback job at UVA.

Eli Holstein

Pittsburgh transfer also expected to compete for the starting quarterback role with the Cavaliers.

Rico Flores Jr.

UCLA transfer brought in to help replace UVA's top three pass catchers from last season.

Jacobie Henderson

Rutgers transfer likely to start at one cornerback spot for the Cavaliers.

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What they’re saying

“From an identity standpoint, it's a very workmanlike group. Practices have been a lot of fun to go to.”

— Tony Elliott, Head Coach

What’s next

The Cavaliers will continue their offseason program and preparations for the 2026 season following the spring game.

The takeaway

With several key departures from last year's record-breaking team, the UVA spring game will provide an important first look at the Cavaliers' new-look roster as they aim to build on their breakthrough 2025 campaign.