ROANOKE, Va. – After weeks of speculation, whispers and rumors--Hokie Nation can now breathe a sigh of relief. Virginia Tech has officially named James Franklin as the next head coach for Hokies football.
Franklin, who was most recently at Penn State, will take over after Virginia Tech cut ties with Brent Pry just weeks into the 2025 season. This marks the second consecutive head coach hire to make the trek from State College to Blacksburg. Pry served as the Nittany Lions defensive coordinator under Franklin.
Franklin’s high profile comes with a proven track record of success. While at Penn State he collected over 100 career wins and led the Nittany Lions to an appearance in the College Football Playoff in 2024. The program advanced through the first round and quarterfinals before eventually falling to Notre Dame in the CFP Semifinals, 27-24.
According to Virginia Tech Athletics, Frankin will be officially introduced at a press conference at Cassell Coliseum at 10 a.m. Wednesday which will be available to stream on our website.
“Virginia Tech has attracted and hired an incredible head coach and extraordinary recruiter in James Franklin. The Board of Visitors enthusiastically supports this hire,” said Rector of the Board of Visitors John Rocovich. “We signal to Hokie Nation, and the entire nation, the shared importance of athletic support and success.”
“Laura and I enthusiastically welcome Coach Franklin and his family to Virginia Tech and Hokie Nation. His experience, passion, and record of success embody our commitment to compete at the highest level,” said Virginia Tech President Tim Sands. “His selection is the result of unprecedented collaboration by our athletic administration with University leaders, esteemed alumni, including former NFL coaches and players, and our most dedicated supporters.”
“I’m honored and humbled to join the Hokie family,” said Franklin. “My vision is simple: to restore unmatched excellence, to build something that lasts, and to serve this University, the Commonwealth of Virginia and our amazing fan base with honor, integrity, and passion. I look forward to getting to work with our players, our staff, and the entire Virginia Tech community.”
Franklin becomes the 30th head coach in Virginia Tech football history.