In the evolving landscape of college football, Virginia Tech’s head coach, Brent Pry, is navigating the complexities of roster management in the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era.
Balancing player retention, recruitment, and staff restructuring has become pivotal for the Hokies as they aim to remain competitive.
Embracing the NIL Landscape
Coach Pry acknowledges the significance of NIL in modern college athletics. He emphasizes the importance of being competitive in this space, stating, “We have to be good in that space.” While Virginia Tech may not possess the extensive resources of some powerhouse programs, Pry is committed to ensuring that NIL opportunities are available to attract and retain talent. He believes that while NIL shouldn’t be the sole reason for a player’s decision to join or stay with the program, it remains a crucial factor in today’s recruiting environment.
Re-recruiting the Locker Room
Understanding the allure of the transfer portal, especially with enticing NIL deals from other institutions, Pry and his staff have proactively engaged in “re-recruiting” their current players. During a recent bye week, the coaching staff dedicated time to meet with players individually, reinforcing their value within the program and addressing any concerns. This approach aims to foster loyalty and mitigate the risk of players seeking opportunities elsewhere.
Strategic Staff Changes
In response to consecutive 6-6 regular seasons and a loss in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl to Minnesota, Pry has initiated significant changes within his coaching staff. Defensive Coordinator Chris Marve, Offensive Line Coach Ron Crook, and Strength and Conditioning Coach Dwight Gault have parted ways with the program. These decisions underscore Pry’s commitment to elevating the team’s performance and addressing areas that fell short in the previous seasons.
Recruitment Successes Amid Challenges
Despite the hurdles, the Hokies secured 19 commitments during the 2024 NCAA early signing period. A highlight was flipping four-star cornerback Jahmari DeLoatch from his commitment to Cincinnati, marking a significant recruiting victory for Pry and his staff. The class predominantly features talent from Virginia and neighboring states, aligning with Pry’s strategy to strengthen regional recruiting ties.
Looking Ahead
As the Hokies prepare for the 2025 season, Pry faces the dual challenge of integrating new coaching personnel and maximizing the potential of his roster within the constraints of the NIL framework. The retention of key quarterbacks Kyron Drones and William “Pop” Watson provides a foundation upon which the offense can build. However, with the departure of several players through the transfer portal, the emphasis will be on developing existing talent and effectively utilizing incoming recruits.
In this dynamic era of college football, Brent Pry’s adaptive strategies in roster management, staff restructuring, and embracing NIL opportunities are central to Virginia Tech’s pursuit of success. The upcoming season will be a testament to these efforts as the Hokies strive to reclaim their standing in the competitive landscape of college football.
