Key Highlights
- James Franklin was officially introduced as the new head football coach at Virginia Tech on November 19, 2025.
- Franklin expressed gratitude towards his former employers and praised former Hokies head coach Brent Pry for his efforts.
- Pry’s tenure at Virginia Tech spanned four years with a record of 16-24 wins before he was fired on September 14, 2025.
- Franklin cited Virginia Tech’s aggressive pursuit and the search committee’s plan as key factors in his hiring.
New Coach Franklin Reflects on Past and Future at Virginia Tech
On November 19, 2025, James Franklin took to the podium for the first time as head football coach at Virginia Tech. The introduction came with a mix of emotions and gratitude, especially towards his former colleagues and the predecessor he now replaces.
Emotional Tribute to Brent Pry
Franklin began his press conference by expressing deep appreciation for his time at Penn State, particularly under head coach JoePa (Joe Paterno). He then turned his attention to the recent past, dedicating a significant portion of his speech to former Hokies head coach Brent Pry. Franklin’s emotional tone was evident as he praised Pry’s dedication and commitment during his four-year tenure at Virginia Tech. “Brent poured his heart and soul into this program,” said Franklin, reflecting on Pry’s efforts despite the team’s struggles in recent years.
Gratitude to Penn State
Franklin also took a moment to thank Penn State for providing him with the opportunity to stay in the same position for 12 years. “It was a rare and special experience,” he stated, emphasizing the relationships formed during his time at the university. The coach highlighted the importance of stability and long-term commitment within college football, which has often been criticized for its frequent coaching changes.
Aggressive Pursuit by Virginia Tech
The transition to Virginia Tech was not without challenges, as Franklin admitted that he left Penn State under difficult circumstances. However, the new opportunity proved too tempting to pass up. “Virginia Tech’s aggressive pursuit and their search committee’s meticulous planning were crucial factors in this hiring,” Franklin explained. The move comes at a time when Virginia Tech is seeking to turn around its program after several underwhelming seasons.
Challenges Ahead
Franklin faces significant challenges as he takes over the Hokies’ football program, which has struggled recently. The team finished below .500 in five of the last six seasons and hasn’t won 10 games since 2016. However, Franklin brings a wealth of experience to the position, having led Penn State to at least 10 wins six times over his 15-year coaching career.
With high expectations for improvement, Franklin’s first season will be crucial in determining Virginia Tech’s future in college football. The coach himself acknowledged this reality, stating that he is ready to make an impact and help the Hokies return to prominence.
Conclusion
The hiring of James Franklin marks a significant shift for Virginia Tech’s football program. As the new head coach begins his tenure, he carries with him both the gratitude for those who came before him and the determination to lead the team towards success in the coming years.
