West Virginia University (WVU) has bolstered its specialist unit by securing a commitment from Alabama kicker Peter Notaro. The announcement marks a significant move as Notaro joins punter Bryan Hansen, a transfer from Colorado State, as part of the Mountaineers’ recruitment efforts from the transfer portal. This addition comes at a crucial time, with the team actively seeking to enhance its kicking game.
Notaro, who hails from Wexford, Pennsylvania, has only spent one year in college football. During his time at Alabama, he served as the backup placekicker and participated in just two games. Despite limited playing time, he successfully completed all five of his extra point attempts and executed five kickoffs. Notaro’s high school career paints a picture of a promising talent; he was a 5-star recruit and ranked as the No. 4 kicking prospect by the reputable Kohl’s Kicking organization. In his final two high school seasons, Notaro made 17 field goals and established a school record with a 53-yard kick.
WVU had previously expressed interest in Notaro during his high school recruitment. Ultimately, he opted for Alabama over other notable programs, including Penn State, Ohio State, and Pitt. The Mountaineers recently faced challenges in their kicking game, prompting the need for an effective solution. Under coach Rich Rodriguez, the team secured Kade Hensley from Coastal Carolina as a one-year rental. Hensley managed to convert 10 of 13 field goals but struggled with extra points, missing one of 32 attempts.
With Notaro’s experience and background, he is poised to make a compelling case for the starting kicker position at WVU in the upcoming seasons, particularly for the year 2026. His youth and proven talent suggest a bright future for him within the program. As of now, the Mountaineers have accumulated a total of 22 commitments since the transfer portal opened on January 2, 2026, indicating a proactive approach to recruitment.
The addition of Notaro not only addresses immediate needs but also aligns with WVU’s long-term strategy for building a competitive team. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the Mountaineers integrate these new specialists into their roster.
