Virginia Tech Holds Spring Practice Media Event Ahead of Spring Game

New head coach James Franklin emphasizes creating a game-like environment for the team and fans.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 7:05pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Virginia Tech football is gearing up for its 2026 spring season, with new head coach James Franklin leading the team through spring practice. Franklin emphasized the importance of evaluating players through various drills and competitions, including a focus on the quarterback room where five players are competing for the starting job. The team will hold its spring game on April 18, which Franklin said will be an opportunity to simulate a game-day environment for the players and provide fans and media with an early look at the team.

Why it matters

The spring practice period is crucial for new head coach James Franklin to evaluate his roster and determine the starting lineup, especially at key positions like quarterback, ahead of the upcoming season. By creating a game-like atmosphere for the spring game, Franklin hopes to better prepare his team for the rigors of the regular season while also generating excitement among the fan base.

The details

Franklin emphasized that the coaching staff will be evaluating players through a variety of drills and competitions during spring practice, including how they retain information and perform in the meeting room. The quarterback competition is particularly tight, with five players vying for the starting job. Franklin said the team will rotate those five quarterbacks evenly to get a better sense of their abilities. Additionally, several players are currently sidelined due to injuries, including cornerback Jordan "Jojo" Crim, defensive lineman Garrett Witherington, and running back Messiah Mickens. To compensate, running back Darius Taylor has been moved to the position, and Franklin highlighted Bill Davis as a player to watch who has slimmed down since arriving on campus.

  • Virginia Tech's spring game is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026.
  • The Hokies open their 2026 season on September 5, 2026 against VMI.

The players

James Franklin

The new head coach of the Virginia Tech Hokies football team, who is leading the team through spring practice and preparing for the upcoming season.

Ayden Greene

A returning senior wide receiver for the Hokies, who led the team in receiving yards and touchdowns last season.

Ethan Grunkemeyer

A redshirt sophomore quarterback competing for the starting job.

Bryce Baker

A redshirt freshman quarterback competing for the starting job.

Darius Taylor

A running back who has been moved to the position to help compensate for injuries to other players.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He has bled, sweat and cried for this program, during adversity. It's not like this has all been smooth sailing during his time.”

— James Franklin, Head Coach

“We've made sure that the players all know that everything was being evaluated. So the strength staff was having an evaluation: the winter workout. That's why I would track all of the competitions; that was a factor in the meetings that we're allowed to have. ... How are they retaining information? How are they answering questions?”

— James Franklin, Head Coach

What’s next

The Hokies will continue spring practice over the next month, leading up to their spring game on April 18. The coaching staff will use this time to further evaluate the roster, particularly the quarterback competition, and determine the starting lineup for the upcoming season.

The takeaway

James Franklin's first spring practice as head coach of the Virginia Tech Hokies is focused on creating a game-like environment to better prepare his team for the rigors of the regular season. By rotating players at key positions like quarterback and emphasizing competition, Franklin hopes to identify the best talent and build momentum heading into the fall.