Four-star RB Messiah Mickens commits to Virginia Tech and James Franklin

Harrisburg (Pa.) High four-star running back Messiah Mickens has committed to James Franklin and Virginia Tech.

The coveted 2026 target was in Blacksburg over the weekend for an official visit. A former Penn State commit, he also strongly considered Ole Miss and Oklahoma.

Mickens becomes commit No. 9 for Franklin and the Hokies in the 2026 class and the first to jump in the fold since Franklin was hired in Blacksburg.

Mickens was a pledge to Franklin at Penn States dating back to Aug. 2023, and is excited to link back up with him at Virginia Tech. The Rivals Industry ranks him as the nation’s No. 17 running back and No. 228 prospect overall.

Virginia Tech visit turned the tide in the recruitment

The 5-foot-10 1/2, 225-pound Mickens obviously enjoyed his trip over the weekend. Coming into the trip Oklahoma was trending. Coming out it was the Hokies.

“It honestly was a good experience,” Mickens said. “I’m happy I made the decision to go and see my guys and Coach Franklin. 

“Campus was very nice. It exceeded expectations.”

Mickens could be the start of a major recruiting heater for Franklin and Virginia Tech. More on that here.

Scouting new Hokies commit Messiah Mickens

Harrisburg (Pa.) High head coach Calvin Everett raved about Mickens who has helped his football team sit at 13-0 and on track to win a state title this fall.

“First and foremost he’s a great young man,” Everett stated. “Extremely talented. Before we talk about the football aspect he’s a great young man. Very respectful, works hard, does all those things you want a young man to do. 

“From an athletic standpoint on the football field he’s an extremely special talent. His vision is impeccable. He sees things that the average, even the elite running back doesn’t see. He’s extremely patient. Then he has a burst out of this world when it comes to getting out of the holes. He’s able to make people miss in the open field. He does as lot of great things.”

Everett sees Mickens and Franklin collectively doing great things at Virginia Tech.

“Coach Franklin he’s a great guy,” Everett said. “I’ve known him for a long time. Since his first days at Penn State I have a really good relationship with him. I know what he’s all about. He’s about his players. That’s the one thing I love about Coach Franklin.”