The Hokies are finalizing a deal to hire James Franklin as their next head football coach, replacing Brent Pry, who was fired after a poor start to the 2025 season. Franklin brings a career record of 128-60 from his time at Penn State Nittany Lions and Vanderbilt Commodores, including a 2024 College Football Playoff semifinal appearance and a Big Ten championship in 2016.
A key part of the deal involves the settlement of Franklin’s buyout from Penn State: although he was initially owed around $49 million, the parties reached a settlement of roughly $9 million as part of his move to Virginia Tech. Virginia Tech is also showing its commitment to elevating the program, having approved a plan to add $229 million to its athletics budget over four years—an indication that the school is serious about returning to national-relevance status.
Franklin will assume the role at a program that hasn’t won double-digit games since 2016 and has struggled to find stability post-the era of legendary coach Frank Beamer. His recruiting ties in the Mid-Atlantic region, experience rebuilding programs, and winning record make him a strong fit—though his challenge will be shifting the culture and convincing top talent to revisit Virginia Tech’s standing in college football.
