James Franklin releases first public comments on accepting Virginia Tech job

James Franklin has officially been named the next head coach of the Virginia Tech Hokies. In the official announcement, Franklin gave his first public comments on his hire.

“I’m honored and humbled to join the Hokie family,” said Franklin, per release. “My vision is simple: to restore unmatched excellence, to build something that lasts, and to serve this University, the Commonwealth of Virginia and our amazing fan base with honor, integrity, and passion. I look forward to getting to work with our players, our staff, and the entire Virginia Tech community.”

Franklin had previously been the head coach at Penn State from 2014 until earlier this season. He left State College after compiling a 104-45 record since he took the job. He is 128-60 overall as a head coach, which includes his three-year stint at Vanderbilt (24-15).

Board of visitors rector John Rocovich, president Tim Sands and athletic director Whit Babcock all commented on the hire during the release. Rocovich said that the board “enthusiastically supports this hire,” while Sands said Franklin will provide both leadership and inspiration to his program, which he expects will result to on-field success that fans “expect and deserve.”

“James Franklin embodies the spirit, vision, and relentless pursuit of excellence that will elevate Virginia Tech Football back on the national stage where it belongs,” said Babcock, per release. “This is a landmark moment for our program — made possible by the unwavering commitment of our Board of Visitors, the Search Committee, University leadership, and donors, who share a bold Invest to Win mindset.

“James is a dynamic leader, a relentless recruiter, and a coach who has proven he can build and sustain elite, championship-caliber programs. We are thrilled to welcome him and his family to Blacksburg and to entrust him with the future of VT Football.”

Franklin is replacing Brent Pry, who spent spent three full seasons and some change coaching the Hokies but was fired after an 0-3 start to the 2025 season. Virginia Tech made the call to have Phillip Montgomery become the interim head coach for the rest of the season, and has led the Hokies to a 3-4 record since taking over.

While Virginia Tech hasn’t had the success they expected this season, the Hokies have been to consecutive bowl games in the last two years. However, the Hokies are 13-13 during that stretch with a 9-7 record vs. the ACC. It’s now on Franklin to turn the program around.