BLACKSBURG, VA – June 3, 2025 – In a bold move signaling a critical juncture for the Virginia Tech football program, Head Coach Brent Pry has initiated a sweeping overhaul of his coaching staff, a decision that has sent ripples through Blacksburg and the ACC. Following a 2024 season that, despite reaching bowl eligibility for the second consecutive year, fell short of internal expectations with a 6-6 regular season record, Pry has made it clear that a new direction is imperative to restore the Hokies to national prominence.
The most significant changes came in December 2024, when Pry announced the dismissals of three key figures: defensive coordinator Chris Marve, offensive line coach Ron Crook, and senior director of strength and conditioning Dwight Galt IV. These were not minor adjustments; Marve and Galt had been part of Pry’s initial staff when he arrived in Blacksburg in 2022, and Crook joined in 2023. The decision to part ways with his defensive coordinator, in particular, was a clear statement of dissatisfaction with the on-field product, even for a coach known for his defensive acumen.
“I appreciate the work Coach Marve, Coach Crook, and Coach Galt have put into Virginia Tech football,” Pry stated in a December press release. “They are great men who, alongside their families, have poured into our university and our student-athletes. However, our on-field results have not met our standards. As head coach, it is my responsibility to make the necessary changes to restore this program to its rightful place among college football’s best and deliver the success Hokie Nation deserves.”
The departures opened the door for a wave of new hires and internal shuffling, reflecting Pry’s vision for a more cohesive and impactful coaching unit. Philip Montgomery was brought in as the new offensive coordinator, replacing Tyler Bowen. Montgomery’s reputation for high-octane offenses suggests a potential shift in the Hokies’ offensive philosophy, aiming for increased yardage and scoring output, a significant improvement from the 367.8 yards per game averaged in 2024.
On the defensive side, while a new defensive coordinator was initially sought, the internal adjustments were substantial. Shawn Quinn was moved to outside linebackers coach, and Xavier Adibi took over as inside linebackers coach. Additionally, the Hokies announced the hirings of Jens Danielson (assistant offensive line coach), Cannon Montgomery (assistant running backs coach), Bryan Whitehead (Nickels Coach), and Jireh Wilson (Edges Coach). This restructuring indicates a desire for fresh perspectives and specialized expertise across the board.
The impact of these coaching changes is already being felt in the locker room and on the recruiting trail. Pry has emphasized a renewed focus on culture and accountability. During spring practices in April 2025, Pry noted the integration of new faces, both players and coaches, and expressed satisfaction with the team-building efforts undertaken in the preceding months. “I’ve been very pleased with the transition of new players and coaches,” Pry remarked. “We did a lot of team building… We really worked hard for these guys to come together, get to know one another and start to forge some relationships that are meaningful.”
The 2025 recruiting class and transfer portal additions also underscore this rebuilding phase. Virginia Tech has been active in the transfer market, securing key players like offensive linemen Tomas Rimac and Lucas Austin (both from West Virginia), and running back Terion Stewart (Bowling Green). Rimac, a former All-Big 12 guard, is expected to be a significant immediate contributor to an offensive line that Pry aims to improve. Stewart, with his impressive rushing statistics from Bowling Green, is projected to be the Hokies’ bell-cow back.
On the recruiting front, the 2025 class has seen commitments from promising talents across various positions, including running back Jeffrey Overton Jr., wide receiver Shamarius Peterkin, and defensive back Jahmari Deloatch, among others. These additions, combined with a core group of returning players, are critical for the long-term health of the program.
Key returning players for the 2025 season include quarterback Kyron Drones, who is looking to bounce back from a challenging 2024 season, and wide receiver Ayden Greene, who is expected to see an increased role in the new offensive scheme. Linebacker Jaden Keller, who led the team in tackles last season, is another veteran poised for a strong performance under the new defensive leadership. The spring game in April showcased glimpses of the new-look team, with the defense demonstrating dominance, and the rushing attack showing promise. While the passing game still needs work, the influx of talent and new coaching directives suggest a concerted effort to address areas of weakness.
The outlook for the 2025 season is one of cautious optimism. Betting sites have set Virginia Tech’s over/under win total at 6.5, an encouraging sign given the extensive changes. The non-conference schedule, featuring South Carolina and Vanderbilt, will provide early tests for the revamped squad.
Ultimately, Coach Brent Pry’s decisive actions signify a complete reset for Virginia Tech football. The dismissals of key staff members, coupled with strategic new hires and an aggressive approach to recruiting and the transfer portal, demonstrate a commitment to elevating the program. The coming season will be a true test of whether these bold moves can translate into the on-field success that Hokie Nation so desperately craves, as Pry strives to deliver a new era of competitiveness and achievement in Blacksburg.
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