In less than one week, the Virginia Tech Hokies are back in action. It will be the first game for new head coach James Franklin when the VMI Keydets come to Lane Stadium to open the 2026 season.
Saturday’s game will also feature the re-debut of defensive coordinator Brent Pry. Pry was Virginia Tech’s head coach for the past four seasons, but was fired last season after an 0-3 start. Pry is excited to be back in Blacksburg, and in the offseason retained Virginia Tech’s top defensive players from a year
ago: defensive tackle Kemari Copeland, linebackers Noah Chambers and Kaleb Spencer and safety Quentin Reddish.
Speaking of Reddish, the Virginia Tech secondary has an interesting blend of returning players and newcomers.
We conclude our 2026 season preview today with a look at the secondary.
Cornerback
A deep group here. The star of the show and most important player is Jaquez White. The Hokies had to fight to land White, winning a battle with the SEC. Everyone held their breath at the spring game when White was hurt, but fortunately it was not a long-term issue, and he’s on the field this year. Brown-Murray is back, and he’s expected to play the nickel, with Woseley also in the mix.
White and Clarke figure to be Tech’s top outside cornerbacks, but keep an eye on Williams and Chadwick. The freshman to know here is Polydor. The Baltimore native had a terrific spring and could be one of a few freshmen to play and not redshirt this season. The Hokies are excited about Clarke.
This is a very good mix of experience and returning players. White has All-ACC potential in 2026.
Safety
Reddish and Flowers should start here. Reddish is another potential All-ACC player. Keep an eye on Robinson. The sophomore has big-time potential and will play a lot. Covil has helped out some at linebacker due to injury.
Outlook
This unit has a chance to be a strength again in 2026. So much of a cornerback’s success is dependent on the pass rush. The Hokies should have a much-improved pass rush this season, led by Copeland on the inside. Unlike recent seasons, Tech isn’t one injury away from disaster in the secondary. The Hokies have depth, specifically at the cornerback spots.
At safety, Reddish and Robinson are the names that stand out most to me. Flowers will start, as he brings plenty of experience, but Robinson will be involved. It will be interesting to see how the Hokies employ Bass. Covil’s versatility will help get him some snaps.
