Recruiting has been a challenge this cycle for Virginia Tech football coach Brent Pry, with the Hokies holding just nine commitments in the Class of 2026 — the fewest in the ACC. That’s a troubling sign for a program trying to build momentum.
Virginia Tech had landed a couple of key early pledges from four-star wide receiver Carnell Warren and quarterback Peyton Falzone. However, both have since decommitted. Warren flipped to North Carolina, while Falzone, now on his second commitment since backing off Virginia Tech, is headed to Auburn. For Tigers fans, it might be wise to wait until National Signing Day before getting too excited.
While the Hokies have remained in contention for several prospects, many of those battles have gone the other way — including a few losses to in-state rival Virginia. One four-star target who had Virginia Tech in his final four recently delayed his commitment announcement.
That player is Elijah Golden, a four-star defensive lineman from Cardinal Mooney High School. Golden had been scheduled to announce his decision on July 26, but he’s now pushed it back to August 8 at 3:30 p.m., per Steve Wiltfong of Rivals. The extra time could give Virginia Tech a better shot against fellow finalists Alabama, Notre Dame, and Oklahoma.
“I wanted to take some more time and think on this decision,” Golden said. “This is very important for me.”
Going up against three powerhouse programs, Virginia Tech still remains in the mix for Golden — and there’s reason for optimism. Golden has noted that the Hokies have been recruiting him since his freshman year, and as a Virginia native, there’s a natural connection to the program. Landing him would be a major win for Brent Pry and could signal real momentum in a class that desperately needs it.
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