Report: Virginia Tech, James Franklin targeting Brent Pry as next defensive coordinator

According to Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports, the Virginia Tech Hokies are targeting Brent Pry to be the program’s next defensive coordinator. Pry was fired this past season by Virginia Tech as the head coach. But his relationship with James Franklin is a strong one, meaning an unusual situation might come together in Blacksburg.

“James Franklin is targeting Brent Pry for his defensive coordinator job at Virginia Tech, sources tell me and @RJ_cfb,” Zenitz said via X. “Pry was VT’s head coach the last four years. Now, potentially returning to Va Tech under Franklin, whom he previously worked under at Penn State and Vanderbilt.”

Pry spent three full seasons as Virginia Tech’s head coach before getting canned after three games into the 2025 campaign. His overall record sat at 16-24, helping the Hokies gain bowl eligibility twice. However, only one winning season is on the resume for Pry, ultimately why the change was made.

As the report mentions, there is plenty of history of crossover between Franklin and Pry. Virginia Tech came calling for Pry when he was the Penn State defensive coordinator. They even go back to when Nashville was considered home.

Franklin even brought up Pry during his introductory press conference at Virginia Tech. He got emotional throughout the comments, talking about the respect he holds for Pry.

“Brent’s Dad was my offensive coordinator in college,” Franklin said. “I’ve known Brent for over 30 years. Brent’s first year coaching was my senior year… Brent and his family was with me at Vanderbilt, all three years. And then I think our first seven years at Penn State.

“So, I’ve got a ton of respect for Brent and his family. I know he poured his heart and soul into this place. I know this place is better today because of Brent and the commitment he made. So, I just want to show the respect to him. I know coaches pour their hearts and souls into this job. I just want to make sure I gave Brent the respect him and his family deserve.”

Right now, nothing is official. Franklin is still building out his staff after getting through National Signing Day. Virginia Tech had a successful one, flipping over a good number of recruits from Penn State. For those who stuck with the Hokies through the process, Pry is the head coach they committed to. Now, they might get to play under him anyway.