After a tough recruiting loss earlier in the week, Virginia Tech football bounced back in a big way, landing a valuable in-state commitment for its 2026 class. Just a day after losing South Carolina prospect Carnell Warren, who had previously committed in January, the Hokies secured a new defensive addition — a move that’s helping steady the waters in what’s been a shaky recruiting cycle so far.
The Hokies, led by head coach Brent Pry, announced the commitment of Kamren Johnson, a three-star edge rusher out of Green Run High School in Virginia Beach. Johnson, a 6-foot-4, 225-pound standout, chose Virginia Tech over fellow ACC programs Virginia and Pittsburgh, making this a crucial win both within the state and the conference.
According to 247Sports, Johnson ranks as the 31st overall player in Virginia, and his recruitment was spearheaded by Hokies staff members J.C. Price and Shawn Quinn. His decision strengthens the growing connection between Green Run High and Virginia Tech, where several of Johnson’s former teammates — including wide receiver Keylen Adams, cornerback Knahlij Harrell, and defensive lineman Zeke Chinwike — are already part of the Hokies roster. Johnson’s recent visit to Blacksburg played a key role in sealing the deal.
The commitment comes at a critical moment. Before Johnson’s pledge, the Hokies had just two recruits committed in the 2026 class — linebacker Joshua Pittman and kicker Will Love — the fewest in the ACC. For comparison, Wake Forest, which ranks second-to-last in commitments, currently has six.
Johnson’s decision injects some much-needed momentum into Virginia Tech’s recruiting efforts and comes ahead of another potentially big announcement. On Saturday, three-star defensive lineman Kamdon Gillespie of Mooresville, North Carolina, is set to reveal his college decision, with Virginia Tech and Georgia Tech as the finalists.
While the Hokies’ recruiting scene has faced its share of turbulence recently, Johnson’s commitment could mark the beginning of a turnaround. Virginia Tech fans can breathe a bit easier knowing that the team is still making strong moves — especially when it comes to keeping top in-state talent home.
Stay tuned, as the weekend could bring even more good news for Hokie Nation.