3 Virginia Tech Players Selected as Potential Late-Round Draft Picks for These NFL Teams

3 Virginia Tech Players Who Could Be Late-Round Draft Steals for These NFL Teams

What a difference a year makes for the Virginia Tech football program. After failing to have a single player selected in the 2024 NFL Draft, the Hokies are poised for a much brighter outcome in 2025. Much of last year’s draft misfortune stemmed from head coach Brent Pry’s focus on player retention, but now several Virginia Tech players are generating buzz as potential late-round picks.

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, mock drafts are predicting that former Hokies will hear their names called. According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), three Virginia Tech players are expected to be picked in the late rounds on Day 3, each filling specific needs for different teams.

Bhayshul Tuten: A Versatile Running Back with Explosive Potential

Virginia Tech running back Bhayshul Tuten has been a standout performer this offseason, impressing scouts with his play at the Senior Bowl and NFL Combine. PFF’s Jordan Plocher predicts that Tuten could be selected by the Chicago Bears in the late rounds, as the team looks to strengthen its backfield. While the Bears may target a top-tier running back early, Tuten’s speed and tackling-breaking ability make him a valuable pick later in the draft. His 40-yard dash at the Combine raised plenty of eyebrows, and his knack for making plays at all levels could make him a hidden gem for any team.

Antwaun Powell-Ryland: A Rising Edge Rusher

Edge rusher Antwaun Powell-Ryland is another Virginia Tech player who has seen his stock rise. After transferring from Florida, Powell-Ryland had a stellar season, recording 14 sacks and consistently disrupting opposing quarterbacks. Plocher has him potentially landing with the Cincinnati Bengals on Day 3, who could benefit from adding depth to their pass rush. Powell-Ryland’s ability to create pressure, along with his 48 pressures and 25 hurries, makes him a prime late-round prospect for teams seeking an edge rusher with immediate impact potential.

Aeneas Peebles: A Defensive Tackle with Major Upside

Aeneas Peebles, who transferred from Duke, is generating significant interest as a potential late-round steal. Known for his impressive pass-rushing skills, Peebles posted a remarkable 92.1 pass-rushing grade at PFF and impressed at the NFL Combine. Plocher sees him as a potential fit for the Kansas City Chiefs, a team in need of interior defensive line help. If selected, Peebles could quickly make an impact as a disruptive force on defense.

With several Hokies likely to be drafted, Virginia Tech is set for a much stronger presence in the 2025 NFL Draft, and these three players could become late-round steals.

Former Carolina Panthers Coach Hits Rock Bottom, Then Stuns Everyone with Unlikely Comeback

Frank Reich’s Stunning Comeback: From the Depths of Despair to a New Beginning at Stanford

Frank Reich’s tenure as head coach of the Carolina Panthers was nothing short of a disaster, with expectations crashing down just 11 games into the 2022 season. After an ambitious start, Reich quickly found himself on the chopping block, with team owner David Tepper pulling the plug on his brief stint. It seemed as though Reich’s career had hit rock bottom, leaving many to wonder if he would ever get another shot at redemption.

Reich’s firing from the Panthers marked the end of a painful chapter. Despite arriving with high hopes, a stellar coaching staff, and the belief that he could turn the franchise around, things fell apart almost immediately. His inability to relinquish play-calling duties, combined with mounting pressure and Tepper’s looming influence, led to a chaotic and ultimately doomed experiment. The Panthers were in disarray, and Reich was out of a job, seemingly left with no way forward.

For a while, Reich vanished from the football scene. The once-promising coach seemed to fade into obscurity, leaving fans and analysts alike to question if he could ever return to the NFL. It was easy to assume that his coaching career had ended in failure, with the Carolina job serving as his last shot. But as it turns out, Frank Reich was far from done.

In a surprising twist, Reich is back in the game—this time at the collegiate level. According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, Reich has been appointed as the interim head coach for Stanford’s football team for the 2025 season. This opportunity gives the program’s general manager, Andrew Luck, a chance to assess Reich’s skills from a fresh perspective and determine if he still has the coaching chops to succeed in a new environment.

Could this be the rejuvenation Reich needed? After all, time away from the NFL might have given him the clarity and energy to refocus on his passion for coaching. His previous stint with the Panthers came right after his tenure with the Indianapolis Colts, a role that ended in frustration and failure. Despite the setbacks, Reich’s ability to land on his feet once again proves that even when all hope seems lost, opportunities can emerge when you least expect them.

Now, Reich has the chance to prove his worth again, this time in the Pac-12. A fresh start at Stanford could be just what the veteran coach needs to revive his career—and to show the world that his best days may still be ahead of him.

Maryland DB, Committed Elsewhere, Reflects on ‘Great Experience’ During Virginia Tech Visit

Maryland DB Khmari Bing Reflects on “Great Experience” During Virginia Tech Visit

Khmari Bing, a defensive back who committed to Maryland more than seven months ago, recently explored new possibilities when he made a trip to Virginia Tech this past weekend. Despite his earlier commitment to the Terrapins, Bing’s visit to Blacksburg has sparked fresh interest, and the three-star recruit had plenty of positive things to say about his experience with the Hokies.

Describing the visit as a “great experience overall,” Bing had the chance to immerse himself in the Virginia Tech program, beginning with a team meeting that offered a glimpse into the Hokies’ culture. The visit wasn’t just about observing from the sidelines—Bing was able to dive into the specifics of the defensive side of the game, attending the safeties’ position meeting led by Virginia Tech’s assistant coach Pierson Prioleau.

For a player like Bing, who is still evaluating his options despite his commitment to Maryland, this visit provided valuable insight into what Virginia Tech has to offer. He was able to experience the intensity and structure of the Hokies’ team environment firsthand, learning more about how the program operates on and off the field. The chance to get a deeper look at the defensive strategy and coaching style of Prioleau was an added bonus, as it gave Bing a feel for how he could fit into the Hokies’ defense.

Bing’s visit to Virginia Tech adds an intriguing layer to his recruitment, as he remains open to exploring other opportunities despite being committed to Maryland. The Hokies’ pitch clearly made an impression, and Bing was able to gauge how he might fit into their system. Whether or not he decides to decommit from Maryland and commit to Virginia Tech is still up in the air, but the visit certainly showcased the Hokies’ strong recruiting efforts.

As Bing continues to weigh his options, his visit to Virginia Tech is likely to be a key factor in his decision-making process. With a program that prides itself on its defensive prowess and coaching expertise, the Hokies could be an attractive alternative for Bing as he prepares for the next step in his football journey. Keep an eye on this recruitment, as Bing’s final decision could make a major impact for whichever team he ultimately chooses.

Vikings’ Kevin O’Connell Shares Aaron Rodgers’ Delicate Message to J.J. McCarthy

Vikings’ Kevin O’Connell Shares Aaron Rodgers’ Candid Message to J.J. McCarthy

The Minnesota Vikings have long been intrigued by young quarterback J.J. McCarthy, and their interest remains strong as they navigate their roster for the upcoming season. However, McCarthy’s recovery from a torn meniscus has left the team exploring all options at quarterback. With 2024 Pro Bowl selection Sam Darnold no longer on the roster, the Vikings have been weighing their options carefully—especially with a future Hall of Fame quarterback potentially available to provide solid backup.

Aaron Rodgers, a name synonymous with greatness, has always had a strong connection to the NFC North, and it’s no surprise that Minnesota emerged as a potential landing spot when he became available. Known for his familiarity with the division and his respect for the Vikings’ potent offense—featuring star players like Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and T.J. Hockenson—it seemed like a natural fit. Even more intriguing, Rodgers has reportedly reached out to the team, sparking speculation that he could serve as a bridge quarterback while McCarthy continues to develop.

However, despite these rumors, Minnesota isn’t rushing into a veteran quarterback acquisition. The Vikings have made it clear that their long-term commitment is to McCarthy, and they’re not looking for a veteran presence that could overshadow or challenge his status as the starting QB. Head coach Kevin O’Connell, understanding the delicate nature of this situation, made sure to have an open conversation with McCarthy about Rodgers’ potential interest in joining the team. O’Connell wanted to ensure that McCarthy was kept in the loop, especially considering the speculation surrounding Rodgers’ possible arrival.

The message was clear: while Aaron Rodgers is undoubtedly a legendary figure in the league, the Vikings’ primary focus is McCarthy’s development and future. The young quarterback, who led Michigan to a national championship in 2023-24, has the team’s full support, and they are eager to give him the opportunity to take the reins without the looming pressure of a future Hall of Famer breathing down his neck.

In the end, this is about fostering McCarthy’s growth while weighing every possible scenario for the future. While Rodgers could be an ideal safety net, the Vikings’ commitment to McCarthy remains steadfast, and the team will move forward with that in mind as the quarterback situation continues to evolve.

Ohio State Football Schedules Official Visit with Former Penn State Commit For Critical Alignment

Ohio State Football Plans Official Visit with Former Penn State Commit: A Key Move for Recruitment

Ohio State football is making a strategic play in its recruitment efforts, as the Buckeyes have scheduled an official visit with three-star prospect Guilford, a standout player from Fort Wayne, Indiana. A dynamic talent from Northrop High School, Guilford had initially pledged his commitment to Penn State in December, but a change of heart led him to decommit from the Nittany Lions in late February. Now, Ohio State is making a strong push to bring him on board for the upcoming season, and this official visit could be a game-changer in his recruitment process.

Ranked as a three-star recruit according to the 247Sports Composite rankings, Guilford has drawn significant attention from top programs across the country. His decision to reopen his recruitment has made him one of the more sought-after players on the market, and Ohio State is now at the forefront of his options. The timing of this visit is crucial, as the Buckeyes look to secure a key addition to their roster for the future.

Guilford’s visit to Ohio State presents an exciting opportunity for the Buckeyes coaching staff to make their pitch. The talented recruit brings a lot to the table, with his versatility and skills drawing praise from scouts. As a top prospect out of Indiana, he represents a potential game-changing addition to Ohio State’s already strong recruiting class. His experience and athleticism make him an ideal fit for the Buckeyes’ system, and this visit could play a pivotal role in determining where he ultimately lands.

While Penn State had initially seemed to have the inside track with Guilford, Ohio State’s interest signals a shift in the recruitment landscape. The official visit is expected to give the Buckeyes a chance to showcase their program, facilities, and coaching staff in a way that could sway his decision.

For fans and recruiting analysts alike, Guilford’s decision is one to watch closely. With Ohio State looking to strengthen its recruiting class, landing a player of his caliber could prove to be a significant win. As the visit draws near, all eyes will be on whether the Buckeyes can secure this key alignment and bring the talented three-star prospect to Columbus.

Virginia Tech Reaches Out Wide to Skilled Guard in Transfer Portal

Virginia Tech Targets Talented Guard in Transfer Portal: Hokies Eye Delaware Star

As the men’s college basketball transfer portal heats up, Virginia Tech is already making moves to secure key additions for the 2025-26 season. With the portal just five days into its opening, the Hokies are reportedly in pursuit of a standout guard from Delaware, adding to the excitement of an already fast-paced transfer cycle.

For Virginia Tech head coach Mike Young, the upcoming portal window promises to be another pivotal opportunity to shape his roster. After a significant turnover last spring, where the Hokies saw several key players leave, they are once again facing a wave of departures. So far this year, five Virginia Tech players have entered the portal, leaving the team with numerous open spots to fill. With more than half a dozen scholarships up for grabs, Coach Young and his staff have plenty of room to build a competitive squad for the next season.

What makes this year particularly exciting for Hokie fans is the enhanced resources at Young’s disposal. Reports indicate that Virginia Tech is set to have a larger NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) package to offer potential transfers, giving the Hokies a more competitive edge in recruiting top talent. This increased flexibility will allow Young to be more aggressive in his pursuit of high-caliber players, and the inclusion of a skilled guard from Delaware highlights just how serious the Hokies are about strengthening their backcourt.

With the transfer portal becoming a crucial part of team-building in modern college basketball, Virginia Tech is positioning itself to make a splash. As the search continues for players who can contribute immediately, fans can expect more high-profile names to enter the mix in the coming weeks. With a solid combination of available scholarships, enhanced NIL resources, and a well-established coaching staff, Virginia Tech is poised to make a significant impact in the portal and build a roster capable of competing at the highest level.

For those keeping an eye on the Hokies’ transfer pursuits, it’s clear that this is just the beginning of an exciting offseason. As Coach Mike Young looks to fill the gaps left by departing players, expect Virginia Tech to continue its aggressive push for talent—especially with key players like the Delaware guard now in their sights.

Auburn Making Waves in the Recruitment of 4-Star DB With Extreme Cautiousness

Auburn is making significant strides in the recruitment of 4-star defensive back Preston Ashley, and they’re doing so with remarkable caution and strategy. After an impactful visit to campus this past Saturday for the Tigers’ spring practice, Auburn has positioned itself as the frontrunner for Ashley’s commitment. With a couple of weeks into spring practices and multiple padded sessions already completed, Head Coach Hugh Freeze and his staff made it a point to create a memorable recruiting weekend, bringing in top-tier talent, including Ashley, to experience the program firsthand.

The trip proved to be a rewarding experience for Ashley, who was thoroughly impressed by everything Auburn had to offer. Despite the four-hour drive to the campus, Ashley was enthusiastic about the visit, noting, “It went amazing, I loved it. The drive wasn’t bad, and I’d definitely love to come back. I’m definitely planning to return in the summer.”

Auburn’s coaching staff made a strong impression on Ashley during his visit. He expressed admiration for the relationship he is building with coaches Durkin, Rushing, and especially Freeze. “Everything’s going great with Coach Durkin and Coach Rushing, and Coach Freeze — God bless him — and all the energy around this program,” Ashley shared. His confidence in the program’s direction was evident as he highlighted his belief that Auburn will have a successful season ahead. “I know Auburn is going to have a great season this year,” he added, showing a clear sense of optimism about the team’s future.

This visit marks a pivotal moment in Auburn’s pursuit of Ashley, who appears to be seriously considering the Tigers as his next destination. With the program showing consistent progress and a renewed energy under Coach Freeze, Ashley’s comments suggest that Auburn is well on its way to securing a commitment from one of the most sought-after defensive backs in the nation. With his potential return this summer, Auburn is in an excellent position to continue building on this momentum and further strengthen their chances of landing Ashley.

Virginia Tech Hokies News: Former Coach Makes Another Move, Baseball & Softball Secure Big

Virginia Tech Hokies News: Former Coach Makes Another Move, Baseball & Softball Shine with Key Victories

It seems like former Virginia Tech coach Buzz Williams is once again eyeing a change, as rumors swirl about his potential move to another program. Meanwhile, the Hokies are making waves in both softball and baseball, securing key wins that have fans buzzing with excitement.

The Virginia Tech softball team, coming off a nine-day break after sweeping Longwood in a doubleheader on March 19, returned to action with a bang. In their first-ever ACC series, the Hokies hosted a fierce matchup against the 16th-ranked Stanford Cardinal. And what a thrilling start it was.

Stanford jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the first few innings, with ace Emma Lemley struggling early on. But the Hokies, known for their resilience, quickly flipped the script. After going hitless through the first three innings, they exploded in the fourth with a dramatic three-run home run by Zoe Yaeger, taking a 3-2 lead. Virginia Tech wasn’t done yet, adding an insurance run in the sixth when Annika Rohs drove in a crucial RBI with a groundout.

With a 4-2 lead heading into the seventh, the Hokies had to fend off a late Stanford rally. Despite the Cardinal’s best efforts, Virginia Tech held strong and secured a 4-3 victory to kick off the series in style.

This win marks a pivotal moment for the Hokies, especially as they face off against a nationally ranked opponent for the first time in their ACC history. Game 2 of the series is set for Saturday at 4 p.m., followed by the final game on Sunday at noon. Fans are eagerly watching to see if the Hokies can keep the momentum going and take the series win.

While Buzz Williams might be looking for a new challenge, the Hokies are proving their strength on the field, with both the baseball and softball teams showing great promise early in their respective seasons. With more action on the horizon, Virginia Tech’s athletic programs are setting the stage for an exciting spring.

MUST SEE: Caitlin Clark’s Unique Nike Kobe 5 Protro ‘Indiana Fever’ Set to Drop This Summer

MUST-SEE: Caitlin Clark’s Nike Kobe 5 Protro “Indiana Fever” Set to Drop This Summer Ahead of Signature Shoe Launch

Get ready, sneakerheads and basketball fans—Caitlin Clark’s highly anticipated Nike Kobe 5 Protro “Indiana Fever” is dropping this summer, giving fans a sneak peek at what’s to come before her signature shoe hits shelves in 2026. Clark has become a household name thanks to her explosive performances in the NCAA tournament with the University of Iowa and her impressive rookie season with the Indiana Fever in 2024. Now, her partnership with Nike is about to heat up even more.

Caitlin Clark x Nike Kobe 5 Protro “Indiana Fever”

  • Colorway: Midnight Navy/Bright Crimson
  • SKU: IM3207-400
  • MSRP: $190 USD
  • Release Date: June 1, 2025
  • Where to Buy: Nike SNKRS and select retailers

The “Indiana Fever” edition of the Nike Kobe 5 Protro takes inspiration from Clark’s WNBA team, with a sleek design that incorporates the Fever’s signature navy, red, and gold colors. The deep blue “Midnight Navy” dominates the shoe’s upper, with striking “Bright Crimson” accents appearing on the tongue, laces, heel, and Swooshes. The vibrant red pops against the darker blue, making for an eye-catching design that’s perfect for any sneaker collection.

Clark first debuted this “Indiana Fever” themed Kobe 5 Protro last year, and the buzz surrounding the release has only intensified since. Fans who have been eagerly awaiting her signature sneaker debut in 2026 will not want to miss out on this limited release, as it offers a preview of the future of Caitlin Clark’s footwear line.

While Nike has yet to officially confirm the release of this specific model, it is expected to drop on June 1, 2025, through Nike SNKRS and select retailers for a starting price of $190 USD. Stay tuned for more details, including a full look at this exciting release, as Caitlin Clark continues to make waves both on and off the court.

Pete Carroll Era: Jakorian Bennett Emerging as a Rising Star for the Las Vegas Raiders

Jakorian Bennett: A Rising Star for the Las Vegas Raiders in the Pete Carroll Era

The Las Vegas Raiders may have found a hidden gem in Jakorian Bennett, and with his rapid development, he’s quickly becoming one of the team’s most promising young talents. As the NFL continues to evolve, the Raiders have built a reputation for scouting and developing players with immense potential, and Bennett looks like he could be the next star to emerge from this franchise.

Bennett’s journey to the NFL wasn’t without its challenges, but his performance since joining the Raiders speaks volumes about his skill set and work ethic. After spending his college years at Maryland, Bennett’s athleticism and high football IQ stood out, and it didn’t take long for scouts to take notice. His ability to read plays, combined with his impressive speed and agility, has allowed him to make an immediate impact on the Raiders’ defense.

What makes Bennett even more intriguing is his ability to thrive in the pressure-packed world of the NFL. With Pete Carroll’s influence—who is well-known for nurturing top-tier defensive talent—Bennett’s potential seems limitless. Carroll’s experience in molding standout defensive players during his long tenure with Seattle is already paying dividends for Bennett, as he continues to develop under the guidance of one of the most respected coaches in the league.

Bennett has the traits that every defensive coordinator dreams of. His quick footwork, smart decision-making, and ability to stay composed under pressure give him a strong foundation to become a dominant cornerback in the league. What makes him even more exciting is his versatility—Bennett is proving he can play both in man coverage and zone schemes, which only adds to his value in the Raiders’ defense.

As the Raiders continue to build their team for the future, Jakorian Bennett is proving he’s a key piece of that puzzle. His work ethic, talent, and potential are clear indicators that he’s ready to take the next step and become one of the NFL’s most formidable cornerbacks. With his skill set and leadership under Pete Carroll’s tutelage, Bennett could very well become the next breakout star for the Raiders in the years to come. Keep an eye on this rising star, as the best is yet to come.