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Virginia Tech NFL Draft Surge: Five Hokies Projected to Be Selected in 2025 Mock Draft

Virginia Tech NFL Dreams: Five Hokies Projected to Hear Their Names Called in 2025 Draft

With the 2025 NFL Draft just weeks away, the anticipation is building for several former Virginia Tech football standouts. According to a new mock draft from College Football Network, five Hokies are projected to be selected, with most expected to come off the board in the mid-to-late rounds. While a few players have outside chances of sneaking into Day 2, Day 3 seems to be the most likely stage where these VT alumni will find their NFL homes.

Leading the pack is standout cornerback Dorian Strong, who is slotted to go in the third round, 73rd overall, to the New York Jets. This aligns with the general consensus around Strong, whose athleticism and physicality at the position make him an ideal fit for a Jets defense that values aggressive secondary play.

In the fourth round, the mock draft predicts a back-to-back Hokie defensive lineman run. Antwaun Powell-Ryland, a dynamic edge rusher, is projected to land at 133rd overall with the Kansas City Chiefs, while Aeneas Peebles, an interior disruptor, is pegged at 134th to the Philadelphia Eagles. Both players could be plug-and-play additions to two playoff-caliber teams in need of depth and rotational talent along the defensive line.

The fifth round sees two more Virginia Tech stars find their pro destinations. Jaylin Lane, a shifty and explosive wide receiver, is forecasted to reunite with Strong in New York as the Jets’ 145th overall pick. Meanwhile, Bhayshul Tuten, the Hokies’ powerful and elusive running back, is projected to go 166th overall to the Houston Texans.

That said, Tuten’s stock may be slightly underestimated here. He made waves during pre-draft workouts and turned heads at the NFL Combine with his speed and versatility. Many analysts believe he could be a sleeper candidate to jump up a round for a team seeking a dual-threat backfield weapon.

As the countdown to draft night in Green Bay continues, Hokies fans have plenty to be excited about. If these projections hold, Virginia Tech could see one of its strongest NFL Draft showings in recent years—proof that the program continues to develop top-tier talent ready for the next level.

Two Perfect Fits: Vikings Urged to Target These Ideal NFL Draft Prospects

NFL Analyst Recommends Two Game-Changing Draft Picks for the Vikings

With just four total selections in the upcoming NFL Draft—and none in the second round—the Minnesota Vikings are facing immense pressure to hit big on their top two picks. Following an offseason spending spree that saw the franchise commit nearly $300 million to free agents, the spotlight now shifts to the draft, where Minnesota has a chance to secure key building blocks for the future.

According to NFL.com draft analyst Chad Reuter, the Vikings could strike gold by selecting Florida State cornerback Azareye’h Thomas in the first round and West Virginia offensive lineman Wyatt Milum in the third. These two prospects are not just talented—they’re considered near-perfect fits for Minnesota’s current roster needs.

Thomas, a 6-foot-1½, 197-pound physical corner, would bolster a secondary that already features Byron Murphy and recently acquired Isaiah Rodgers. While both veterans are dependable, the Vikings still need a young, sizeable presence on the outside who can grow into a lead role. Thomas brings that potential in spades. In his standout season with the Seminoles, he posted 52 tackles, two tackles for loss, four pass breakups, and an interception over 12 games. His physicality and ability to match up with larger receivers make him an ideal long-term solution for the Vikings’ defensive backfield.

In the third round, Reuter suggests Minnesota use their compensatory pick on Milum, a consensus All-American left tackle who could transition inside to guard. With the left guard spot currently a question mark, Milum has the chance to compete for a starting role immediately alongside Will Fries, who holds down the other guard position. His agility, footwork, and aggressive play style make him a natural fit in the trenches.

If Minnesota follows through on Reuter’s recommendation, the payoff could be massive: two players who not only fill immediate roster holes but also carry long-term starting potential. Thomas and Milum could develop into cornerstone players—one anchoring the defensive backfield, the other strengthening the offensive line.

In a draft where every pick carries extra weight, the Vikings have a chance to do more than just add depth. They could land two future starters who help push the team back into playoff contention.

Denver Broncos Foundation to Build Three Playgrounds, Giving Kids Safe Spaces to Play and Grow

Denver Broncos Foundation Partners with KABOOM! to Build Playgrounds for Local Youth

The Denver Broncos Foundation is taking major strides to create more safe spaces for children to play and grow. In an inspiring move aimed at improving access to recreational areas, the foundation has committed to building three KABOOM! playgrounds in underserved neighborhoods across Denver. These new play spaces will be designed for children aged 5-11, giving them a much-needed opportunity to engage in healthy play while fostering creativity, teamwork, and physical activity.

The initiative focuses on high-need areas where families may have limited access to safe playgrounds. One of the first locations selected for a new playground is Montview Elementary School. This school, located in a neighborhood that has long been underserved, will soon boast a modern, safe, and vibrant space for students to enjoy. Thanks to the collaboration between the Denver Broncos Foundation and KABOOM!, Montview Elementary will have a playground that meets the needs of its young students, encouraging them to play freely and connect with others.

In addition to the Montview playground, the Broncos Foundation will be working to bring two more KABOOM! playgrounds to the community. While the exact locations have not yet been disclosed, the foundation has expressed a commitment to targeting areas with the greatest need. By partnering with KABOOM!, a non-profit dedicated to building play spaces for children, the Broncos are helping ensure that kids in Denver have access to the kinds of outdoor environments where they can thrive.

This generous contribution reflects the Broncos’ ongoing commitment to supporting the well-being of Denver’s youth, especially in areas where safe recreational opportunities have been scarce. The new play spaces are not just about providing fun—they’re about giving kids the chance to develop social skills, build friendships, and engage in healthy physical activities. For parents and community members, the creation of these playgrounds offers hope for a brighter, more connected future where every child can experience the joy of outdoor play.

The Denver Broncos Foundation is setting a powerful example of how sports organizations can make a tangible difference in the lives of local communities. These new playgrounds will not only serve as places of joy but will also act as community hubs where children and families can come together, strengthening bonds and building lasting memories.

Ex-Virginia Tech Star Re-Enters the Transfer Portal – What’s Next?

Rodney Rice Re-Enter’s Transfer Portal: What’s Next for the Former Hokies Guard?

For the second time in less than a year, former Virginia Tech guard Rodney Rice is heading back into the transfer portal.

Before the start of the 2023-24 Virginia Tech men’s basketball season, the Hokies and head coach Mike Young suffered an unexpected blow when Rice decided to leave the program in mid-October. Once the transfer portal opened, Rice made his move and ended up at Maryland, joining coach Kevin Willard’s Terrapins.

At Maryland, Rice played a crucial role for the team, which had a strong run in the Big Ten. The Terrapins advanced to the semifinals of the Big Ten Tournament before falling in a heartbreaker to Michigan. Maryland’s NCAA Tournament journey also saw success, as they won their first two games before being eliminated in the Sweet 16 by Florida.

However, after the loss to Florida, a shake-up occurred when Willard left Maryland to become the head coach at Villanova. The coaching change didn’t sit well with Rice, and it didn’t take long for him to decide to enter the transfer portal once again.

Rice’s decision to re-enter the portal has raised plenty of questions. The Maryland native, who averaged 13.8 points per game and shot 43% from the field this season, is once again one of the most sought-after guards on the market. In the NCAA Tournament, Rice made his presence known with 9 points in a win over Grand Canyon, 16 points in a second-round victory over Colorado State, and 12 points in the loss to Florida.

Before transferring to Maryland, Rice played 8 games for Virginia Tech during the 2022-23 season, averaging 7.4 points per game and nearly 20 minutes of action. His departure left a major hole in the Hokies’ backcourt, putting extra pressure on Sean Pedulla to handle the point guard duties.

Now, as Rice looks for his next destination, speculation is swirling that he could follow Willard to Villanova. Whether that’s the case or not, it’s clear that Rice will have no shortage of suitors, with many programs eager to add his scoring ability and playmaking skills to their roster. The next chapter of Rice’s career promises to be an exciting one.

Wide Defending World Champion Masanosuke Ono Chooses Penn State Wrestling!

World Champion Masanosuke Ono Joins Penn State Wrestling in a Shocking Move

Just days after Penn State Wrestling dominated the NCAA tournament and etched its name into the record books, the program has landed one of the most surprising and impressive commitments in recent memory.

Masanosuke Ono, the 20-year-old reigning world champion from Japan, is officially joining the Nittany Lions. Ono’s explosive performance at the Senior Freestyle World Championships last October turned heads worldwide. His path to the 61kg title included stunning victories over Olympic champion Zavur Uguev and defending world champ, Team USA’s Vito Arujau, showcasing his elite athleticism and razor-sharp technique.

Following his triumph, Ono hinted at his future plans in an interview, stating in broken English that he intended to train at Penn State. What initially seemed like a short-term training stint with the Nittany Lion Wrestling Club (NLWC) has now turned into something much bigger. After months of speculation, Ono confirmed on FloWrestling Radio Live and later on Instagram that he will be competing for Penn State’s Folkstyle team.

What Does This Mean for Penn State?

Ono’s decision is unprecedented. He is widely regarded as one of the most talented freestyle wrestlers of his age group—and now, he is stepping into the world of collegiate Folkstyle wrestling for the first time. His commitment raises plenty of questions.

How long will he stay? Even Ono himself isn’t entirely sure.
What weight will he compete at? He joked that he could wrestle anywhere from 125 to 157 pounds, though 133 or 141 seems most likely.
How will he adapt? The transition from Freestyle to Folkstyle is significant. While Ono’s par terre dominance is undeniable, the ability to escape from bottom position—a crucial skill in Folkstyle—remains a major unknown.

Despite these uncertainties, there’s no denying that Ono’s arrival makes an already dominant Penn State program even more dangerous. Head coach Cael Sanderson and his staff now have an elite international talent stepping into their finely tuned system, adding yet another weapon to their arsenal.

As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on Ono’s development and how he fits into Penn State’s loaded lineup. One thing is for sure—this move shakes up the college wrestling landscape in a way few could have predicted.

Virginia Tech Hokies Make Power Moves: Top Basketball Targets Visit & Baseball Dominates Wake Forest!

Virginia Tech Making Big Moves: Key Basketball Transfers Visit & Baseball Stuns Wake Forest

As the transfer portal frenzy heats up, Virginia Tech’s women’s basketball team is wasting no time in rebuilding its roster. With three players entering the portal and starters Rose Micheaux and Matilda Ekh out of eligibility, new head coach Megan Duffy faces the challenge of replacing three key pieces ahead of next season.

This weekend, the Hokies hosted three high-profile transfers in Blacksburg, according to Trilly Donovan’s X account, Skim Milkey. Purdue’s Sophie Swanson, Bucknell’s Ashley Sofilkanich, and Wake Forest’s Demeara Hinds all made visits, signaling Virginia Tech’s aggressive push to reload for the upcoming season.

Hinds, a versatile forward who averaged 9.3 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.2 assists for a struggling Wake Forest team, has a strong connection to the Hokies—she was originally recruited to Winston-Salem by current Virginia Tech assistant Jen Hoover. That relationship could give the Hokies a serious edge in landing her.

Meanwhile, Sofilkanich, a high-scoring guard, put up impressive numbers at Bucknell, averaging 19.7 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game. Her ability to contribute on both ends of the floor would be a major asset to Virginia Tech.

With these visits, it’s clear Duffy and her staff are making aggressive moves to ensure the Hokies remain competitive next season.

Virginia Tech Baseball Pulls Off Stunning Sweep Against Wake Forest

Over on the baseball diamond, Virginia Tech made a massive statement by sweeping No. 16 Wake Forest over the weekend. After securing wins in the first two games of the series, the Hokies capped it off with a thrilling 6-5 comeback victory on Sunday.

Trailing 5-2 heading into the ninth inning, Virginia Tech erupted for four runs to complete the sweep, improving to 20-8 overall and 7-5 in ACC play. Wake Forest, once considered a top contender, fell to 20-9 and 7-5 in the conference.

Ben Watson delivered a clutch solo homer, keeping the Hokies within striking distance. In the seventh, they had a prime opportunity to take control with the bases loaded and one out, but Wake’s ace Blake Morningstar shut them down with back-to-back strikeouts. The Demon Deacons capitalized in the bottom of the inning, extending their lead with an RBI triple and single.

However, Virginia Tech refused to back down, delivering a dramatic ninth-inning rally to seal the sweep.

With major moves happening in both basketball and baseball, it’s clear the Hokies are making waves across multiple sports.

Hugh Freeze Sounds the Alarm on Auburn’s Wide Receiver Room – Big Concerns Ahead?

Hugh Freeze Puts Pressure on Auburn’s WRs: “They Better Make Plays”

Auburn football fans are eager to see the Tigers’ wide receivers take a big leap this season. With standout KeAndre Lambert-Smith moving on to the next level, the focus now shifts to the returning “Freeze Four”—Cam Coleman, Malcolm Simmons, Perry Thompson, and Bryce Cain—along with two key transfer additions, Eric Singleton Jr. and Horatio Fields.

While Singleton’s blazing speed has already set him apart, wide receivers coach Marcus Davis believes Fields’ experience and leadership mentality will help fill the void left by Lambert-Smith. Meanwhile, Coleman and Simmons are coming into their own after a full season of experience, adding depth and playmaking ability to the unit.

With so much talent in the WR room, one might expect confidence from head coach Hugh Freeze—but instead, he issued a statement that raised eyebrows.

“They better make plays,” Freeze said, per Auburn Undercover. “If that room doesn’t have success, we won’t have success. It’s one of the more talented rooms I’ve ever been associated with.”

He even compared them to some of the biggest names he’s coached in the past, including DK Metcalf, AJ Brown, Van Jefferson, and Evan Engram. However, he stopped short of declaring them at that level just yet.

“It’s a bit early for me to put all of that on them, but it rivals it. It’s close,” Freeze admitted.

He also noted that the young players are finally settling into the system.

“Even Malcolm and Perry, just a second year in the same system, with the same terminology, doing the same things, you see them now catching on,” he explained. “There were times last year where Payton was ready for Malcolm or Perry to do something, and it didn’t always happen. But now you see them executing at a better level. We are very much dependent on that room having success.”

That’s a lot of pressure for one position group, but with Freeze entering his third season at Auburn, the stakes couldn’t be higher. After back-to-back losing seasons, the Tigers need wins—and if the wide receivers don’t deliver, Freeze could find himself on the hot seat.

Hugh Freeze Breaks Down Auburn’s First Spring Scrimmage – Key Takeaways

Hugh Freeze Reacts to Auburn’s First Spring Scrimmage: What’s Standing Out?

After a delayed start due to Auburn’s official spring break, the Tigers are now three weeks into their spring training, with an intense quarterback battle unfolding and new arrivals adjusting to life on the Plains. On Saturday, the team hit a major milestone with their first scrimmage, and head coach Hugh Freeze liked what he saw.

“I was really encouraged by the competitiveness of both sides,” Freeze told Auburn Rivals. “It went back and forth, and the competitiveness was really good to see. We’ll do it again this Saturday and hopefully see some improvement in every area.”

One position group that’s catching Freeze’s attention? The wide receivers. Auburn retained its core group—dubbed the “Freeze Four”—which includes Cam Coleman, Perry Thompson, Bryce Cain, and Malcolm Simmons. Now in their second year under Freeze’s system, they’re showing notable improvement.

“Even Malcolm and Perry, just having a second year in the same system, with the same terminology, you see them now catching on,” Freeze said via Auburn Undercover. “Last year, there were times when Payton expected them to do something a certain way, and it didn’t always happen. But now, you see them executing at a better level. We are very much dependent on that room having success.”

The Tigers have also added fresh talent, and some newcomers are already turning heads. While Georgia Tech transfer Eric Singleton Jr. is a big-name addition, Freeze was quick to highlight the playmaking abilities of incoming freshman Sam Turner and Wake Forest transfer Horatio Fields.

Earlier this spring, Freeze called Auburn’s receiving corps one of the most talented groups he’s ever worked with. As the team gears up for the 2025 season, the success of this unit could be a game-changer.

With another scrimmage on the horizon, all eyes will be on how Auburn continues to sharpen its skills and define its roster in the weeks ahead.

Dawn Just Blew Up the WNBA, Cathy —And You Won’t Believe Why!

Dawn Montgomery’s Fiery Rant Sparks Controversy Over WNBA Priorities

In a bold and unapologetic tweet, Dawn Montgomery didn’t hold back her frustration with the WNBA and its leadership. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Montgomery voiced her displeasure over what she sees as an unfair distribution of resources, calling out the league for investing heavily in a player she believes hasn’t earned the hype—aside from, in her words, “being white.”

“This makes absolutely no sense,” she wrote. “I swear they’re putting all this money into that girl who ain’t done shit but be white. I’m sick of this and Cathy. I don’t care if I don’t ever get invited to WNBA-related events or games anymore. Enough is damn enough.”

Her fiery comments didn’t just call out the player in question but also took direct aim at WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, seemingly accusing the league of favoritism. Montgomery’s remarks immediately ignited a storm of reactions across social media. Supporters praised her for speaking out against perceived injustices in the league, while critics accused her of being divisive and unprofessional.

While Montgomery has never been one to shy away from controversy, this latest outburst raises bigger questions about how marketing, endorsements, and investment are handled within women’s basketball. Is there an underlying bias in how players are promoted? Are certain athletes given advantages based on factors outside of their performance on the court?

Regardless of where one stands on the issue, one thing is clear: Montgomery’s tweet wasn’t just a passing complaint—it was a direct challenge to the WNBA’s leadership and its decision-making. Whether the league responds or chooses to ignore the backlash remains to be seen, but the conversation Montgomery sparked isn’t dying down anytime soon.

Big Rule in College Baseball: Does It Exist?

Does College Baseball Have a Mercy Rule? Here’s What You Need to Know

As college baseball reaches the midpoint of the season, games are heating up, and so are the scores. Some matchups turn into intense nail-biters, while others spiral into lopsided blowouts. When a team builds an overwhelming lead, one question often arises: Is there a mercy rule in college baseball?

The short answer? Yes. College baseball does have a run rule, commonly referred to as the “mercy rule.” The rule states that if a team leads by 10 or more runs after seven innings, the game is called, and the leading team is declared the winner. This rule helps prevent unnecessary exhaustion and potential injuries, especially in a sport where managing pitching depth is crucial.

For example, Virginia Tech has already experienced the run rule this season—both benefiting from it and falling victim to it. In a recent series against Wake Forest, the Hokies secured a 13-2 victory after jumping to a nine-run lead in the first inning. Since the lead extended past 10 runs by the seventh inning, the game was ended early.

Though some fans may not love the idea of an early finish, many coaches welcome it. The mercy rule allows teams to conserve pitching arms for upcoming games and prevents unnecessary wear and tear on players. While some teams can agree to waive the rule and continue playing, most conferences enforce it to protect their athletes.

Ultimately, while college baseball doesn’t always see runaway games, the mercy rule exists as a safeguard to keep competition fair and sustainable. So, the next time you see a team dominating on the scoreboard, you’ll know—if they hit that 10-run mark after seven innings, the game might just be over early.