Virginia Tech's football program is on the rise, and the new head coach, James Franklin, is making waves in the recruiting world. The Hokies are on a hot streak, and their eyes are set on an impressive 2027 recruiting cycle.
Franklin and his team are prioritizing in-state talent, and one of their top targets is Junior Saunders, a highly-rated offensive tackle from Woodberry Forest, Virginia. Saunders, a four-star recruit and the third-best player in the state, has Virginia Tech high on his list. He's scheduled to take an official visit to Blacksburg on June 5th, an exciting development for Hokie fans.
Saunders is ranked as the 278th overall prospect and 24th-best offensive tackle in the 2027 cycle by the Rivals Industry Ranking, which combines data from all major recruiting media. With offers from Virginia and South Carolina already in hand, Saunders is a highly sought-after recruit, and the battle for his commitment is heating up.
But here's where it gets interesting: Saunders has already visited Blacksburg multiple times, and Franklin has made a point to check in on this talented prospect. With no decision imminent, Virginia Tech is determined to keep up the momentum and battle it out with other interested schools, including the Cavaliers and Gamecocks.
In the 2026 cycle, the Hokies successfully recruited Saunders' teammate, Buddy Wegdam, a three-star offensive tackle from the same high school. This year, they're aiming even higher, with a focus on building a strong in-state foundation for the future.
And this is the part most people miss: Virginia Tech's 2026 class made a significant jump in the Rivals Industry Team Recruiting Rankings, moving up 100 spots to finish at No. 29. It's a clear indication that Franklin's recruiting strategy is paying off, and the program is on an upward trajectory.
So, what does this mean for the Hokies? Well, it's an exciting time for Virginia Tech football. With Franklin at the helm, the program is attracting top talent and building a strong foundation for future success. But the question remains: Can they secure the commitment of Junior Saunders and continue their recruiting momentum into the 2027 cycle?
What do you think? Will Virginia Tech land Saunders, or will another school steal him away? Let's discuss in the comments and share your thoughts on this intriguing recruiting battle!
