Heading into the 2025 season, it was clear that the Virginia Tech football team needed leaders on both sides of the ball. On defense, Kelvin Gilliam has stepped up to fill that role.
After transferring from Oklahoma via the 2023 winter Transfer Portal and choosing to return this year, Gilliam has already made an impact on the field. This season, however, he has also emerged as a vocal leader for the Hokies. When Virginia Tech announced the firing of head coach Brent Pry following a disappointing loss to Old Dominion, Gilliam didn’t stay quiet.
Following the news, Gilliam delivered a loud and clear message to his teammates. After Virginia Tech’s 38-6 non-conference win over Wofford at Lane Stadium, he shared his thoughts on the situation, as reported by Andy Bitter of Tech Sideline.
That’s the mark of a true leader. Cornerback Dante Lovett entered the Transfer Portal on Monday, and he likely won’t be the last. Some players didn’t suit up on Saturday, and interim coach Philip Montgomery explained afterward that injuries and personal matters were the reasons. Those factors are likely influencing players’ decisions on whether to enter the Transfer Portal or redshirt for the remainder of the year.
On the field, Gilliam delivered with four tackles and 1.5 sacks against the Terriers. The Hokies as a team recorded four sacks and 12 tackles for loss. Let’s be honest: Wofford wasn’t a strong opponent, but Virginia Tech did what was expected against an FCS team.
Regarding Gilliam’s message, there’s likely more news this week about additional Hokies entering the portal rather than staying the course. But make no mistake—Gilliam made it clear he isn’t afraid to speak up and push his teammates as they try to salvage the rest of the season.
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