$41.7 million head coach delivers college football’s No. 1 rebuild of recruiting cycle

Virginia Tech has hired James Franklin as its new head coach following a disappointing 3–9 season. Franklin, previously dismissed by Penn State after 12 seasons, has signed a five-year contract with Virginia Tech valued at approximately $41.7 million. The deal includes increased commitments to assistant coaching salaries and recruiting resources.

Franklin's tenure at Penn State ended in October 2025, with a settlement reducing his buyout to $9 million. Upon joining Virginia Tech, Franklin significantly impacted the recruiting landscape by flipping 11 former Penn State commits and securing several high-profile in-state recruits. The Hokies’ 2026 recruiting class, bolstered by these efforts, is now ranked 24th nationally by 247Sports.

Key recruits include RB Messiah Mickens, ATH Pierce Petersohn, and four-star OT Thomas Wilder, among others. The recruitment victories have improved Virginia Tech's standing and perception after a challenging season. Franklin's strategy has been recognized by ESPN’s Craig Haubert, who ranked