James Franklin, the former Penn State head coach, has signed a new contract with Virginia Tech, marking a significant shift in his career. After a tumultuous season with the Nittany Lions, Franklin's dismissal from Penn State in October 2025 sparked speculation about his future. Virginia Tech, seeking a new direction after the departure of Brent Pry, quickly became a leading candidate for Franklin's services.
The hiring of Franklin by Virginia Tech was a strategic move, given his impressive track record. With the Nittany Lions, Franklin achieved six seasons of 10 or more wins, a Big Ten title, and a College Football Playoff appearance. His best season with the team was in 2024, where they reached the CFP Semifinal game, albeit narrowly losing to Notre Dame. Despite this success, Franklin's tenure at Penn State ended abruptly due to a change in leadership, as athletic director Patrick Kraft believed it was the right time for new leadership to guide the program towards Big Ten and national championships.
Virginia Tech, on the other hand, was in a different position. With a 3-7 record at the time of Franklin's hiring, the Hokies were in need of a turnaround. The team had not been nationally relevant for several years, with their last 10-win season in 2016 and their last conference title in 2010. However, Franklin's arrival brings a sense of optimism. His ability to attract talent through the transfer portal and traditional recruiting methods is expected to elevate the program's performance.
Despite the challenges, Franklin's appointment at Virginia Tech is a testament to his coaching prowess. With a history of success at Vanderbilt and now at Virginia Tech, he is poised to make a significant impact on the Hokies' future. As he embarks on this new journey, the focus is on restoring the program's excellence and building a lasting legacy, much like his previous achievements.
