James Franklin arrived in Blacksburg with a clear mission: reshape the Virginia Tech roster through the Transfer Portal before the 2026 season. His early moves have already turned heads across the ACC.
The program’s final Transfer Portal ranking placed it No. 27 nationally and fourth in the ACC, but the coaching staff views the movement as a foundation rather than a setback.
Retaining key contributors such as wide receiver Ayden Greene, running backs Marcellous Hawkins and Jeffrey Overton, Jr., provides continuity and experience for the upcoming campaign.
Key Additions
Among the most anticipated arrivals are quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer and tight end Luke Reynolds, both transferred from Penn State and expected to anchor the offense.
The Transfer Portal has become a permanent fixture in college football, intertwined with the name, image and likeness landscape, and Virginia Tech’s strategy reflects that reality.
With a blend of retained talent and high‑profile transfers, the Hokies are positioning themselves to compete for ACC contention and a strong postseason outlook.