New York, November 27, 2025
James Franklin’s appointment as head coach at Virginia Tech in mid-November 2025 has immediately reshaped college football recruiting, with the new coach securing top recruits and prompting a shift of critical commitments previously made to Penn State. The move is impacting the 2026 early signing period and altering regional recruiting dynamics ahead of the next season.
James Franklin’s Hiring at Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech officially hired James Franklin as its new head football coach in mid-November 2025, replacing Brent Pry. Pry had served as Franklin’s defensive coordinator during Franklin’s tenure at Penn State. Franklin’s swift arrival at Virginia Tech allowed him to quickly establish recruiting activities before many competing coaching staffs fully organized their efforts.
Rapid Shift in Recruiting Momentum
Since his hiring, Franklin has pursued multiple recruits originally committed to Penn State. His early engagement strategy included hosting campus visits and recruiting events, notably during a weekend that attracted several high-profile prospects and Penn State commitments. Franklin’s proactive approach has yielded significant results in influencing player decisions.
Key Recruit Flips and Pursuits
One of the most notable changes was the commitment of five-star running back Messiah Mickens, a top-ranked recruit in the 2026 class and formerly committed to Penn State. Mickens’ official visit to Virginia Tech shortly after Franklin’s hire culminated in his signing, marking Virginia Tech’s first ESPN 300 recruit under Franklin. Franklin is also actively pursuing Pierce Petersohn, a four-star tight end who has been committed to Penn State since June 2025. Petersohn visited Virginia Tech during a weekend recruiting event hosted by Franklin and remains a key target for a commitment flip. Recruits Matt Sieg (safety) and Troy Huhn (quarterback), both previously linked to Penn State commitments, have visited and are expected to receive Franklin’s concentrated recruiting effort.
Broader Impact on Penn State Recruiting
Franklin’s move signals a potential disruption in Penn State’s 2026 recruiting class, with several top prospects reconsidering their commitments. This shift threatens to create an exodus of elite talent from Penn State, altering the balance of recruiting power in the region ahead of the early signing period. The momentum established by Franklin at Virginia Tech is reshaping the competitive landscape for recruits.
James Franklin’s Coaching Background and Credibility
Franklin brings over 30 years of coaching experience, including a strong and successful tenure at Penn State. Under his leadership, Penn State achieved multiple College Football Playoff appearances, finishing in the top 12 with Big Ten titles. This extensive experience bolsters Franklin’s credibility and attractiveness to recruits, further enhancing Virginia Tech’s recruiting position.
Franklin’s arrival at Virginia Tech demonstrates an immediate and decisive impact on college football’s recruiting environment, signaling ongoing shifts in commitments involving major programs. The developments are set to influence competitive college football landscapes and recruiting dynamics throughout the upcoming cycle.