Virginia Tech Targets Penn State WR Transfer Jeff Exinor Jr.

Virginia Tech is making a move in the transfer portal by targeting Penn State wide receiver transfer Jeff Exinor Jr. The news was initially shared by 247Sports Kolby Crawford. Exinor, who just completed his true freshman season at Penn State, is now looking to continue his college football career at another program.

Exinor joined Penn State as part of the 2025 recruiting class and was ranked among the top-350 prospects nationally according to the 247Sports Composite rankings. A native of Maryland, he received interest from several Power Four programs during his high school recruitment. He took visits to Virginia Tech, Michigan State, Syracuse, and Maryland before ultimately committing to Penn State.

Originally recruited as a tight end, Exinor has transitioned to wide receiver, a position that better suits his athletic profile and skill set. Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 220 pounds, he already has a college-ready frame that could allow him to compete physically in the ACC early in his career. While comprehensive high school statistics are not available through MaxPreps, his recruiting evaluations highlight his potential.

Greg Biggins, a national recruiting analyst for 247Sports, described Exinor as a natural pass catcher with reliable hands and strong ball awareness. He also noted Exinor’s ability to use his body effectively to create separation and box out smaller defensive backs, traits that could translate well at the collegiate level, especially in contested-catch situations.

Familiarity With Virginia Tech Could Be a Key Factor

Exinor’s familiarity with Virginia Tech could play a significant role in his recruitment. He took an official visit to Blacksburg in April before committing to Penn State and has existing relationships with members of the current coaching staff, including head coach Brent Pry and wide receivers coach Fontel Mines. These connections may give Virginia Tech an advantage as it looks to address needs through the transfer portal.

The Hokies enter the offseason with clear questions in the wide receiver room after injuries limited production at the top of the depth chart during the 2025 season. Virginia Tech was forced to rely heavily on inexperienced options, and the lack of depth became increasingly evident as the season progressed. Adding a physically developed receiver with multiple years of eligibility remaining could help stabilize the position group moving forward.

Potential Impact on the Program

At minimum, Exinor would provide depth and developmental upside, but his size and recruiting pedigree suggest the potential for more. With portal spots at a premium, Virginia Tech is expected to pursue his recruitment aggressively, and the staff’s prior relationship with Exinor could lead to a relatively quick decision.

If landed, Exinor would represent another positive step for Virginia Tech in strengthening its footprint in the Mid-Atlantic region while addressing a pressing roster need at wide receiver.

Other Developments in Virginia Tech Football

In addition to this development, there have been other notable moves in the Virginia Tech football program. Two-sport athlete Micah Matthews has entered the transfer portal, while Ayden Greene announced his return to Virginia Tech. Cincinnati defensive lineman Kamari Burns has locked in a visit to Virginia Tech, and Missouri edge rusher Javion Hilson has also confirmed a visit to the Hokies.

These developments highlight the ongoing efforts by Virginia Tech to strengthen its roster and remain competitive in the ACC. As the transfer portal continues to shape the landscape of college football, the Hokies are actively seeking ways to improve their team and secure future success.