Virginia Tech Football: Hokies Announce New Additions To The Staff, Plus Some Reshuffling
Blacksburg, VA — As the Virginia Tech Hokies prepare for the upcoming 2025 football season, the program has made significant changes to its coaching staff, including the announcement of new hires and some reshuffling within the existing ranks. Head coach Brent Pry has made it clear that these changes are part of a larger effort to improve the team’s performance and overall development, with a particular focus on bolstering both the offensive and defensive units.
New Additions to the Hokies’ Football Staff
Virginia Tech’s recent moves include the hiring of several key coaches who bring a wealth of experience to the program. These hires are expected to contribute immediately, helping to sharpen the Hokies’ recruiting efforts and game strategy.
1. New Offensive Line Coach: Trent Brown
One of the most significant changes is the addition of Trent Brown as the new offensive line coach. Brown, who previously coached at Texas A&M and Georgia Southern, has a reputation for developing strong and versatile offensive lines. His experience with high-caliber programs and his ability to coach up talent will be crucial as the Hokies continue to strengthen their offensive front.
Brown is particularly known for his ability to transform struggling offensive lines into reliable units. His coaching philosophy revolves around maximizing the potential of each player, instilling toughness and discipline while maintaining a balanced run-pass offense. His arrival is expected to help Virginia Tech improve its offensive line, providing better protection for quarterback Kenny Pickett and creating more space for running back Najee Harris.
2. New Defensive Backs Coach: Anthony Johnson
Another crucial hire comes in the form of Anthony Johnson, who will take over as the defensive backs coach. Johnson, who previously worked as a coach for the University of Miami and Louisville, has developed a strong reputation as a developer of elite cornerbacks and safeties. He brings a wealth of experience working with some of the top defensive back prospects in the country, and his expertise is expected to elevate Virginia Tech’s secondary.
Johnson’s approach emphasizes developing ball skills, creating turnovers, and improving coverage techniques. The Hokies have faced challenges in the secondary over the last few seasons, and Johnson’s leadership is anticipated to bring a new level of energy and discipline to the defensive backfield. With a rising talent pool in Virginia and surrounding areas, Johnson will be key in recruiting and developing the next generation of Hokies’ defensive backs.
3. New Wide Receiver Coach: Taylor Wilson
The wide receivers have been a key area of focus for Virginia Tech as they aim to improve the passing game. To this end, Taylor Wilson has been hired as the new wide receivers coach. Wilson previously coached at Oklahoma State and has a strong background in working with dynamic wide receiver groups that can stretch the field and generate explosive plays.
Wilson has a reputation for developing wide receivers into polished route runners and playmakers. Under his leadership, Virginia Tech’s wideouts will be expected to improve their consistency, with an emphasis on creating separation and making contested catches. Wilson’s extensive experience at top programs will help the Hokies take their passing attack to the next level, something that has been a priority for Brent Pry and his offensive staff.
Staff Reshuffling
In addition to these new hires, there have also been several reshuffling moves within the existing staff to better align with the evolving needs of the team.
1. Defensive Coordinator Jeffery Thompson Takes on a Larger Role
After being hired as the defensive coordinator, Jeffery Thompson has been given additional responsibilities as part of the reshuffling. He will now also be overseeing the team’s overall defensive game plans, which includes managing both the linebackers and defensive backs. This expanded role allows Thompson to implement his vision for Virginia Tech’s defense across all levels, from the defensive line to the secondary.
Thompson’s ability to coordinate a high-pressure, turnover-driven defense will play a key role in reshaping Virginia Tech’s defensive identity. By overseeing all defensive personnel, he will have more flexibility in terms of game planning and utilizing the strengths of his players.
2. Special Teams Coach: Mike Thomas Moves Up
Mike Thomas, who has served as an assistant special teams coach, has been promoted to special teams coordinator. His promotion is part of a strategic move to enhance Virginia Tech’s special teams, which have faced inconsistency in recent seasons. Thomas has already demonstrated his ability to improve the kicking game and special teams coverage, and with his new role, he will work on developing the entire unit’s discipline and efficiency. With the Hokies’ ongoing quest to regain special teams supremacy, Thomas will be tasked with improving both kick coverage and return units.
3. Strength and Conditioning Changes: New Leadership
In a move to further emphasize the importance of physical conditioning and player development, Virginia Tech has also appointed a new strength and conditioning coach. This coaching change aims to address the Hokies’ need for better injury prevention and player stamina throughout the season. The new coach, Gregory Miller, brings experience from his time working with both college and professional programs, where he specialized in sports science and physical training methodologies.
Miller will look to enhance the Hokies’ strength and conditioning program, with an emphasis on building a more explosive and durable team. This change is part of Virginia Tech’s efforts to enhance overall performance and reduce injury risks for the team, ensuring that players can maintain peak performance levels throughout the season.
Impact of the Staff Changes
With these new additions and reshuffles, Virginia Tech’s football program is poised for an exciting future. Head coach Brent Pry has been proactive in making changes that reflect his vision for the team’s culture and success. The Hokies have added proven coaches in key areas while also shuffling existing staff members to maximize their contributions. Together, these moves will provide more balance and depth to both sides of the ball and could play a pivotal role in the Hokies’ push for success in the ACC.
As the new hires settle into their roles, the Hokies’ recruiting efforts will likely improve, and fans can expect an elevated product on the field. Trent Brown‘s work with the offensive line will create more protection for the quarterbacks, while Anthony Johnson will help improve the defensive backfield and lead them to better playmaking opportunities. Taylor Wilson will elevate the wide receiver group, contributing to a more potent passing attack. On top of that, Jeffery Thompson’s expanded role and Mike Thomas’ new position as special teams coordinator will further elevate the Hokies’ ability to compete in all aspects of the game.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Virginia Tech Football
With these strategic staff changes, Virginia Tech football is positioning itself for success in the coming seasons. The additions of high-quality coaches in key areas and the reshuffling within the current staff show the Hokies’ commitment to building a competitive, well-rounded team. As Brent Pry continues to recruit and develop talent, these coaching moves will help shape the future of Virginia Tech football, giving them the resources and leadership to compete at a high level in the ACC and beyond.
The 2025 season will be a key year for the Hokies as they look to implement these changes and take the program to the next level. Fans can expect to see a more dynamic and competitive Virginia Tech team in the coming seasons, with an improved offensive attack, a revitalized defense, and an all-around more efficient squad. With the right leadership in place, the Hokies could soon be back in the national conversation, ready to challenge for a spot at the top of the ACC standings.