Virginia Tech Lands Key In-State Linebacker in Big Recruiting Win for 2026 Class
The recruiting momentum in Blacksburg is building fast—and Virginia Tech just added a major piece to its 2026 puzzle. Head coach Brent Pry and his staff had a busy weekend, starting with the annual Spring Game and a strong wave of campus visitors. By the end of it, the Hokies had secured not one, but two new commitments. And on Monday, they struck gold with a significant in-state pickup that could set the tone for the rest of the recruiting cycle.
Joshua Pittman, a standout linebacker from Suffolk, Virginia, announced his commitment to Virginia Tech, becoming the Hokies’ first in-state pledge for the Class of 2026—and the third overall commitment in that group. Pittman’s decision is especially impressive given the competition; he chose the Hokies over offers from programs like Pittsburgh, Syracuse, Michigan State, Indiana, and others. He’s also made recent visits to Wake Forest and North Carolina, showing just how wide-ranging his recruitment had become.
Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 210 pounds, Pittman brings a physical presence to the field and has the versatility to play both inside and outside linebacker. Known for his ability to pressure quarterbacks and shut down the run, he’s expected to fit well into the aggressive, hard-nosed defensive scheme Pry is building in Blacksburg.
This commitment follows two others in recent days: wide receiver Carnell Warren from South Carolina, who committed back in February, and kicker Will Love, the younger brother of current Hokie John Love, who announced his decision on Sunday. With talent being added across the board—offense, defense, and special teams—Virginia Tech’s 2026 class is starting to take shape in a promising way.
As the spring recruiting season heats up, the next few months will be crucial. Numerous high-priority targets are expected to visit campus throughout May and June, and the coaching staff will be looking to keep this positive momentum going. More commitments are likely on the horizon, especially as summer approaches and players begin narrowing down their choices.
For now, Virginia Tech fans can celebrate a strong early foundation in the 2026 class—and with an in-state playmaker like Joshua Pittman now on board, the future in Blacksburg is looking bright.