Virginia Tech's football program celebrated a double signing on Wednesday, as three‑star cornerback Austin Barrett from Paramus Catholic in New Jersey pledged his future to the Hokies, joining a growing list of commitments for the 2027 class.
Barrett, ranked No. 36 among cornerbacks nationwide and the twelfth‑best prospect in New Jersey, chose the Atlantic Coast Conference school over rival programs such as Virginia and West Virginia, a decision that underscores the Hokies' rising appeal in the Northeast.
The following day, offensive tackle Dylan Latell, a 6‑foot‑6, 295‑pound standout from Girard High School in Ohio, announced his commitment, rejecting offers from a slate of contenders that included the defending national champion Indiana, as well as Minnesota, Pittsburgh and Kentucky.
Their pledges bring the Hokies to 19 total verbal commitments for the 2027 recruiting cycle, positioning the class at No. 9 in the national rankings and cementing Virginia Tech's reputation as a recruiting hub.
A new era for Hokies athletics
Alongside the on‑field excitement, the university unveiled Hokie Ventures, a nonprofit organization designed to modernize revenue generation and strategic investment for Virginia Tech Athletics, with a record‑breaking donation set to be disclosed later this year.
University officials say the new venture will help the athletics department diversify its funding streams and enhance competitiveness, a move that could reshape how collegiate programs approach financial sustainability.