The biggest domino to fall for Virginia Tech’s 2026 roster fell on Sunday night, when Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports revealed that former Penn State quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer is expected to land with the Hokies.
Grunkemeyer, a 6-foot-2, 207-pound
quarterback from Lewis Center, Ohio, spent the past two years at Penn State. He redshirted in 2024, appearing in one game and attempting two passes. He entered 2025 as the backup to Drew Allar. However, after Allar’s ankle injury, Grunkemeyer took over.
A former four-star recruit and top-100 player, Grunkemeyer would lead the Nittany Lions to a 4-3 finish, including a bowl win over Clemson, before entering the transfer portal. He completed 69% of his passes for 1,339 yards, with eight touchdowns and four interceptions. Grunkemeyer finished with a quarterback rating of 142.6 and an ESPN QBR of 75.0.
Make no mistake, Grunkemeyer was James Franklin’s top target to start in 2026. Grunkemeyer also plays the position much differently than what Virginia Tech fans may be accustomed to seeing. While he can move and has mobility, he is considered more of a pocket passer.
Once Grunkemeyer officially signs with the Hokies, you can expect Franklin to target another passer in the transfer portal. Virginia Tech lost its top three quarterbacks from a year ago, and upgrading the position was one of Franklin’s top priorities.
As for Grunkemeyer, he chose reuniting with Franklin, offensive coordinator Ty Howle and quarterbacks coach Danny O’Brien. Adding Grunkemeyer is a huge win for the Hokies.
