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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A key part of the deal involves the settlement of Franklin\u2019s 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\u2014an indication that the school is serious about returning to national-relevance status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Franklin will assume the role at a program that hasn\u2019t 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\u2014though his challenge will be shifting the culture and convincing top talent to revisit Virginia Tech\u2019s standing in college football.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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