James Franklin’s Arrival Signals a New Era for Virginia Tech Football (11-19-25)
By: Joey Raymond
Headline Photo Credit: Joey Raymond-LMS Network
BLACKSBURG, Va. — A new era officially began Wednesday inside Cassell Coliseum as James Franklin was introduced to the public as the next head coach of Virginia Tech football. Franklin appeared warm, emotional, and deeply genuine as he took the podium for the first time in maroon and orange — ready to begin what he called the most meaningful coaching opportunity of his career.
Franklin opened with humility. “I’m honored and humbled to join the Hokie family,” he told the crowd, before outlining his vision: to restore excellence, to build something lasting, and to serve the university, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the fanbase with integrity and passion. Before he even began his prepared remarks, the room broke out into a classic “H-O-K-I-E-S, Hokies!” first-down chant, and Franklin paused to absorb the moment.
His first thanks went to the Corps of Cadets, then his family, as he spoke about gratitude and perspective. He emphasized repeatedly how alignment is critical in modern college football — from administration to staff to players — and said he was impressed by how unified Virginia Tech was throughout the interview process. He described the Hokies’ pursuit of him as “relentless,” a comment that drew some laughs from the media and those in attendance.
Soon after, Franklin became visibly emotional when speaking about former head coach Brent Pry. The two have shared more than three decades of friendship and football, and Franklin credited Pry for helping him reach this moment. He went so far as to say, “This place is better today than it was when Pry took over,” making it clear that he holds deep respect for the program Franklin now steps in to lead.
From there, Franklin transitioned into the lessons learned across his coaching journey — including twelve years at Penn State. “It’s very rare to get 12 years at a place,” he said, acknowledging how meaningful that tenure was and how it shaped him. He addressed the players directly, calling himself “a players’ coach,” and thanked Frank Beamer in a moment that drew smiles. Franklin joked that he’s only asked for a blessing twice in his life: once before getting married, and again before signing his Virginia Tech contract. Beamer, he said, was gracious and supportive.
Staff Movement: Building the Engine Behind the Coach
One of the most significant, yet quietly strategic, pieces of Franklin’s move to Blacksburg is the coaching and administrative talent he’s bringing with him. According to reports, key Penn State staffers are already planning their departure to follow Franklin to Virginia Tech. Among them are former Director of Football Administration Kevin Threlkel and recruiting personnel veteran Andy Frank. Their arrival signals a seamless and well-trusted support infrastructure — something Franklin clearly values strongly. This kind of continuity could help him implement his vision quickly and effectively, rather than starting from scratch.
Institutional Backing & Leadership Voices
Virginia Tech’s leadership has made it clear: they didn’t just hire Franklin — they bet on him. Athletic Director Whit Babcock described the moment as “landmark,” praising Franklin as a “transformational leader” who can elevate the program. “We believe that James Franklin has the experience, the character, and the vision that aligns perfectly with where we want Virginia Tech football to go,” Babcock said.
Bud Foster, the legendary former defensive coordinator, was also in attendance and expressed strong support for the hire. From his perspective, the momentum behind Franklin’s arrival started building quickly after Franklin’s departure from Penn State. However, Franklin wanted time to step back and regroup before taking on his next challenge, and Foster helped ensure the process unfolded at the right pace. For Foster and others involved, the focus wasn’t just finding a coach who could win immediately — it was securing someone who could build something lasting and meaningful in Blacksburg.
Franklin also made it clear that recruiting has already begun. He told the room that 40 players are already committed to Virginia Tech, a staggering number considering how recently he arrived. He praised interim head coach Philip Montgomery for stabilizing the program during a difficult moment and said he can’t wait for the experience of walking into Lane Stadium to “Enter Sandman.”
Franklin acknowledged that transitions like this inevitably bring change — from new coaches to new players arriving with the staff. He is already working on assembling assistants who align with the culture and priorities he wants to establish at Virginia Tech. At the same time, he made it clear that the current roster isn’t being pushed aside. The players already in the program are now his players too, and they remain the foundation. Any new additions — whether transfers or freshmen — will be brought in to elevate standards, increase competition, and make the team better as a whole. It’s not a given that they replace the talent already in the room.
From the first chant to the last handshake, Franklin delivered clarity, emotion, and conviction. A new era has begun in Blacksburg, and based on his opening statement, Franklin isn’t interested in flash — he’s interested in building something that can last.
