Could Virginia Tech Land a Game-Changing Pass Rusher from the Transfer Portal?
Virginia Tech has been busy navigating the transfer portal this offseason, with an eye on strengthening key areas of the roster. One position the Hokies are actively looking to improve is pass rusher. Last season, they boasted one of the nation’s top pass rushers in Antwaun Powell-Ryland, but with him heading to the NFL, along with fellow defensive lineman Aeneas Peebles, the Hokies are now in search of a dynamic replacement to help lead the defense.
In their first round of transfers, Virginia Tech added defensive players James Djonkam from Eastern Michigan and Ben Bell from Texas State. While both are promising additions, the team still has a glaring need for a standout pass rusher. Fortunately, just as the Hokies are looking for that perfect fit, a major prospect has emerged in the transfer portal who could be exactly what they need.
David Bailey, a standout defensive end from Stanford, officially entered the transfer portal recently, and he’s quickly gaining attention as one of the top players in this spring’s cycle. Bailey is a former top-100 recruit, and his impressive college resume speaks volumes. Over three seasons with the Cardinal, he has accumulated 23 tackles for loss (TFLs) and 14.5 sacks—a record that proves his ability to disrupt opposing offenses and bring the pressure.
Though it’s still early in the process and no formal interest has been reported yet, Bailey would be an ideal candidate for Virginia Tech to pursue. His proven track record of getting to the quarterback and his experience playing in the competitive Pac-12 would make him an instant impact player for the Hokies’ defense.
For a Virginia Tech team that’s looking to replace key defensive leaders and bolster its pass rush, adding a player like Bailey could be a game-changer. With the Hokies eager to stay competitive in the ACC and beyond, landing a top-tier transfer like him could set them up for success in the upcoming season.