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sports1d ago
$41.7 million head coach delivers college football’s No. 1 rebuild of recruiting cycle
- Virginia Tech hires James Franklin as head coach on a five-year, $41.7 million contract to rebuild the program.
- Franklin inherits a 3–9 season and aims to close in-state recruiting gaps, reshaping the Hokies' narrative.
- Franklin’s staff flipped several Penn State pledges and secured in-state wins to boost the 2026 class.
- Virginia Tech’s 2026 class rises to No. 24 nationally after Franklin’s arrival, per 247Sports.
- ESPN ranks Franklin highly for rebuilding a 2026 recruiting class, labeling him No. 1 among new coaches.
- Franklin’s arrival is seen as closing talent and perception gaps for Virginia Tech ahead of the transfer portal window.
- Pry’s tenure at Virginia Tech ended after a 16–24 record, including bowl appearances in 2023 and 2024.
- Virginia Tech added several notable recruits, including Messiah Mickens and Thomas Wilder, to the 2026 class.
- Franklin’s hire followed his Penn State dismissal and a reduced buyout after negotiation.
- The deal includes commitments to expand assistant salaries and recruiting resources.
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