A Deepening Tight End Room
Sam Faniel, ranked as the No. 10 overall player in Virginia for the 2027 cycle, announced his commitment to Virginia Tech on Tuesday, choosing the Hokies over a host of other suitors. The tight end cited the program’s culture and the expertise of coach Ty Howle as decisive factors in his decision.
Faniel will join Jordan Karhoff and Braxton Salster, forming a three‑person tight end cohort that ranks among the most talent‑laden in the 2026 roster. The group’s depth is expected to give the Hokies versatile options both in the passing game and in run‑heavy formations.
Coach Ty Howle, widely recognized as one of the nation’s premier tight end developers, has attracted multiple high‑profile prospects to Blacksburg in recent weeks. His reputation, combined with the school’s recent on‑field successes, helped seal Faniel’s pledge.
The commitment pushes Virginia Tech’s 2027 recruiting class into the top‑15 nationally, a milestone that underscores the program’s upward trajectory under head coach James Franklin. The class already features several other notable signees and transfers, further bolstering the roster’s overall talent.