As Virginia Tech football gears up for the 2025 season, the defense is undergoing significant changes, with new faces expected to make a big impact. One of the most notable shifts is the hiring of Sam Siefkes as the new defensive coordinator, taking over from Chris Marve, who was one of three coaches dismissed by head coach Brent Pry in December.
With several key defensive players either drafted into the NFL or moving to the transfer portal, Virginia Tech faces a challenge in rebuilding the unit. However, the Hokies have been proactive, adding some seasoned players through the transfer portal to bolster the defense ahead of next season. While there were positive strides during spring practices, Pry acknowledged that there were still gaps to fill in the lineup.
Over the weekend, Virginia Tech addressed some of those needs with two important commitments that will add depth and experience to the defensive side of the ball.
Hokies Add Key Players Through Transfer Portal
The first major addition is cornerback Caleb Brown, who comes to Virginia Tech from Hawai’i. Brown, a standout in the transfer portal, recorded 24 tackles and seven pass breakups during the 2024 season. His skills will help shore up a secondary that’s in need of experienced playmakers.
The second significant addition is defensive tackle Elhadj Fall from Georgia Southern. Fall, who stands 6-foot-3 and weighs 290 pounds, brings with him two more years of eligibility. A Georgia native, he was an All-Sun Belt Conference honorable mention in 2024 after posting 20 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, and 2.5 sacks. His experience and size will provide much-needed depth to a defensive line that lost several key players to the NFL, including Antwaun Powell-Ryland (Philadelphia Eagles) and Aeneas Peebles (Baltimore Ravens).
In addition to Fall, Virginia Tech has already added several defensive line transfers in recent months, including Kody Huisman from North Dakota State, Arias Nash from Mercer, and Jahzari Priester from Hampton. These additions should help strengthen a defensive line that will look to remain a dominant force despite the losses.
Looking Ahead
While the Hokies have made significant strides in rebuilding their defense, it’s clear that Pry and Siefkes are focused on creating a more balanced and competitive unit for the 2025 season. With new faces across the board and several key transfers, Virginia Tech football looks ready to tackle the challenges ahead and continue its upward trajectory in the ACC.