Virginia Tech is set to debut its 2026 football team at the annual Spring Football Game, presented by Eagle Construction, on April 18. The event will mark the first public appearance of new head coach James Franklin and a roster that features several new players, coaches, and support staff.
The spring game is significant as it provides fans with an early look at a program undergoing major changes. With many newcomers joining returning athletes who have focused on off-season conditioning, there is heightened anticipation for how the team will perform in the upcoming season.
Among those highlighted ahead of the game are wide receiver Ayden Greene, who led Virginia Tech in receptions last year. “I’ve been a big AG fan, really from the beginning,” said head coach James Franklin. “He was part of last year’s leadership council. I also think it is awesome in today’s college football when you see a guy that his entire career has been at one institution. That guy has made a commitment to this place. He has bled, sweat and cried for this program.” Other notable additions include wide receiver Que’Sean Brown from Duke and tight end Luke Reynolds from Penn State.
Offensive coordinator Ty Howle discussed his approach to developing tight ends: “I think it was kind of one of those positions at Penn State. They did a really good job identifying and developing it for a long time… Developing the tight ends from run game, pass game protection and building them into all around players… And then I think the recruiting piece, finding the right guys… willing to be gritty and tough and do all the dirty work but also have athletic ability to do some special things in other areas.” Special teams coordinator Doug Shearer praised incoming punter Nathan Totten: “What’s really impressive about the kid is he’s here in these winter workouts… He’s here to earn everything that comes his way… He’s one of eight in his family which is impressive… Nathan’s a really special kid.”
The Hokies finished last season ranked low in passing offense but performed well in rushing yards per game. This year’s offensive line includes seven high school recruits and four transfer additions as Coach Franklin focuses on improving performance up front.
Broadcast coverage for the spring game will begin at 2:30 p.m., available through Virginia Tech Sports Network radio affiliates as well as online platforms such as Hokie Sports Mobile App and Hokiesports.com.
As Virginia Tech enters this new era under Franklin’s leadership with increased financial support from university athletics, expectations are high among fans eager to see whether these changes can return Hokies football to national prominence.
