As the Virginia Tech Hokies prepare to take the field for their annual Spring Game this weekend, there’s more intrigue than ever swirling around Lane Stadium. Unlike in past years, this spring showcase won’t just be a tune-up — it’s a proving ground for a roster riddled with unknowns and fresh faces.
This offseason has been one of significant transition. Between graduating seniors, early NFL Draft declarations, and a handful of players entering the transfer portal, the Hokies are heading into the 2025 season with more question marks than answers. Both sides of the ball are affected, and the Spring Game could be the first real glimpse into how this reshaped squad might look come fall.
Quarterback Quandary
The biggest storyline heading into Saturday’s scrimmage is the quarterback situation. While Kyron Drones had seemingly cemented himself as QB1 last fall, he’s now sidelined due to a medical procedure, leaving his status for the start of the season uncertain. That means all eyes turn to Pop Watson, a promising backup who may suddenly find himself thrust into a leading role. Drones’ injury history has to be a concern, and Watson’s performance in the Spring Game could provide a glimpse into Virginia Tech’s contingency plans.
Running Back Reset and O-Line Overhaul
At running back, the Hokies are looking to fill a massive void left by Bhayshul Tuten’s entry into the NFL Draft and Malachi Thomas’ transfer. Enter Marcellus Hawkins, a transfer from Central Missouri who could see early reps. He’ll run behind a revamped offensive line — another unit in flux. Offensive line coach Matt Moore has work to do rebuilding the front, though the addition of a few former West Virginia players gives the group a hopeful boost.
Defensive Depth Dilemma
Defensively, Virginia Tech must replace stars like Antwaun Powell-Ryland and Aeneas Peebles on the line and nearly its entire starting secondary. The Hokies dipped into the transfer portal for help, adding experienced pieces like Sherrod Covil (Clemson), Isaiah Brown-Murray (East Carolina), and Tyson Flowers (Rice), but cohesion remains a concern.
Heading into the Spring Game, the Hokies are less focused on flash and more on finding solutions. With several starting roles up for grabs and critical depth pieces still unproven, the next step in Virginia Tech’s rebuild starts this Saturday — and the spotlight will be shining bright.