Defensive Line: A

Virginia Tech’s defensive line received several key additions, including Daniel Jennings from Penn State, Javion Hilson from Missouri, Eric Mensah from Ohio State, Cortez Harris from Penn State, Mylachi Williams, and Randy Adirika from Penn State. These acquisitions provide the Hokies with a strong foundation for the future.

Javion Hilson, a redshirt freshman, has the potential to become a starter by 2026. Meanwhile, Jennings, Harris, Williams, and Adirika all bring three or more years of eligibility, which is crucial for depth. The Hokies need to replace Kelvin Gilliam Jr. and Kody Huisman at defensive tackle, but the additions of Mensah and Adirika, along with the retainments of Kemari Copeland and Emmett Laws, offer solid coverage.

At defensive end, Harris and Jennings may require a season to adjust, while Hilson appears to be the most promising acquisition in this group. Overall, Virginia Tech successfully bolstered its defensive line with strategic additions that also look ahead to future needs.

Linebackers: B

The linebackers room saw the addition of Keon Wylie from Penn State and Curtis Jones from West Virginia. While these two players are solid additions, the number of transfers is lower than expected compared to other positions.

Virginia Tech lost both Jaden Keller and Caleb Woodson from its starting lineup. Keller is no longer eligible, while Woodson transferred to Alabama. Noah Chambers and Kaleb Spencer are the main returners, but the team could use more depth.

Wylie was initially the only linebacker added, but Jones joined after the deadline due to a 48-hour processing window. Both players can contribute immediately, though Jones’s experience as a bandit could lead to a shift in roles if the coaching staff decides to revisit that scheme. Despite the limited additions, the linebackers remain a net positive for the team.

Defensive Backs: B+

The defensive backs room saw the addition of Cam Chadwick from UConn, Jaquez White from Troy, and Kenny Woseley from Penn State. These players add much-needed competition to a position that has seen little turnover.

Jaquez White has the potential to challenge existing starters Thomas Williams and Isaiah Brown-Murray for a starting spot, depending on whether Virginia Tech continues to use a nickelback in most defensive packages. Cam Chadwick is versatile, having played both cornerback and safety, making him a valuable asset if the team faces injuries.

Tyson Flowers had a solid season but showed inconsistency, while Jordan Bass struggled adjusting from linebacker to safety. Chadwick’s versatility makes him an ideal plug-and-play option. Kenny Woseley is also a solid corner who should factor into the two-deep in 2026.

Overall, the defensive backfield benefits from these additions, providing much-needed depth and competition.