Virginia Tech lands 4-star OT and former Hokies commit Thomas Wilder

After decommitting from Virginia Tech back in September, four-star offensive tackle Thomas Wilder has re-committed and is back in the fold with the Hokies.

The Virginia Beach (Va.) Green Run star was originally pledged to the Hokies from July 3 to mid-September, but reopened his recruitment following the firing of VT head coach Brent Pry.

And while he looked at a handful of other schools, Blacksburg was home. He returned over the weekend to meet with new head coach James Franklin and has now given his commitment less than 48 hours out from National Signing Day.

“I still have much love for Tech, but I am also weighing out my options right now,” Wilder told Rivals’ Chad Simmons when he decommitted.

Prior to his original pledge, one of those options was Penn State, where Franklin led the Nittany Lions. The two quickly reconnected once he was hired at Virginia Tech.

Wilder is the No. 363 overall prospect and No. 32 offensive tackle in the 2026 cycle, according to the Rivals Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all major recruiting media companies. He’s also the No. 10 player in Virginia.

He tackle has been on scout’s radars for multiple years. Back in 2023, he drew early praise from Rivals’ Director of Scouting and Rankings Charles Power:

“An easy, natural mover. Works to the second level effortlessly,” Power wrote. “Seeks out linebackers and looks to finish with authority. A bully in the run game. Plays with a nasty streak. Shows advanced pop in his hands. Has good flexibility with the ability to drop his weight and anchor on contact. Will need to continue refining his game and developing physically, but looks to be a top offensive lineman early on in 2026.”