Quarterbacks: A

Virginia Tech’s quarterback position received a strong grade, with the Hokies making two key additions. Ethan Grunkemeyer, who comes from Penn State, is seen as the safe option to start and proved his ability last year. His presence provides stability. Meanwhile, Bryce Baker, a transfer from North Carolina, brings potential despite being less experienced at the collegiate level. Baker was ranked as a top-15 quarterback in the Class of 2025 and could serve as a reliable backup if needed.

While Virginia Tech managed to fill their needs for this position, there is a slight lack of experience. Four of the five quarterbacks on the roster have not played a single snap in college before. However, the team seems well-prepared for the upcoming season.

Running Backs: A-

The running back position saw a solid acquisition in Bill Davis from Louisiana. With Terion Stewart no longer eligible, Virginia Tech needed an experienced third back to complement Marcellous Hawkins and Jeffrey Overton Jr. Davis, standing at 5-foot-9 and weighing 225 pounds, may not have the same contact-breaking ability as Stewart, but he offers similar durability and build. This addition should provide a reliable option for the Hokies’ backfield.

Wide Receivers: B+

The wide receiver group received a slightly lower grade due to concerns about production. Jeff Exinor and Tyseer Denmark, both transfers from Penn State, were secondary options in their previous teams but have plenty of time to develop. Exinor has four years of eligibility left, while Denmark has three. Que’Sean Brown, a transfer from Duke, is the marquee addition and should be an immediate starter alongside Ayden Greene.

The question of who will be the third starter remains unanswered, and it’s possible that the Hokies may rely on a rotating cast. While adding another experienced wide receiver would have been ideal, the current group is still in a better position than last season.

Tight End: A-

Virginia Tech made two key acquisitions in the tight end position: Matt Henderson and Luke Reynolds, both from Penn State. The addition of these players should improve the depth and competition in the unit. Reynolds is expected to take over the primary tight end role from Benji Gosnell, pushing him to elevate his performance. Henderson could also serve as a third or fourth option, challenging former player Ja’Ricous Hairston.

Last year, Virginia Tech had two tight ends they could rely on, but this year, the depth has increased to four, which is a positive development.

Offensive Line: B

The offensive line saw four new additions: Justin Bell from Michigan State, Logan Howland from Oklahoma, Michael Troutman from Penn State, and Justin Terry from Ohio State. While the group brings youth and depth, it lacks experience. Howland is the only one among the four with less than three years of eligibility remaining.

In the short term, this might be a slight disadvantage compared to seeking more experienced players. However, the long-term benefits are clear, as the Hokies are building for the future by investing in younger talent. The increased depth should lead to improvement in the offensive line over time.

Additional Coverage

For more updates on Virginia Tech football, check out the following:

• On3 Sports Ranks Virginia Tech In 2026 Way-Too-Early Top 25
• Hughes: Now That The Transfer Portal Cycle Has Concluded, What’s The Mood Around Virginia Tech?
• Three Players Virginia Tech Football Needed to Keep from Hitting the Transfer Portal
• Virginia Tech Is Targeting Former NFL and SEC Assistant For Defensive Backs Coach Role