Brent Pry Returns to Virginia Tech as Defensive Coordinator in Franklin’s New Era
BLACKSBURG - Brent Pry is back in Blacksburg.
Just four and a half months after his run as Virginia Tech’s head football coach came to an end, Pry is returning to the Hokies - this time as defensive coordinator and linebackers coach under new head coach James Franklin. It’s a surprising twist, but one that’s already generating buzz inside the Merryman Center and beyond.
Pry, who spent nearly two seasons as Tech’s head coach before being dismissed in September, was all smiles as he stepped into the team room Wednesday morning. His entrance was met with laughter and handshakes, and he quickly took command of the room - a familiar presence in a new role.
“I’m just excited to be back,” Pry said. “This place means a lot to me.”
A Familiar Face, A New Chapter
Pry’s return marks a full-circle moment. He was hired as head coach in 2021 and brought a defensive-minded identity to the program. Now, with Franklin taking over the reins, Pry slides back into a role he knows well - the architect of a defense.
Franklin and Pry’s relationship goes back years. The two worked together at Vanderbilt and Penn State, where Pry served as Franklin’s defensive coordinator.
Their chemistry and shared vision helped build one of the Big Ten’s most respected defenses in Happy Valley. Now, they’re reuniting to try and bring that same formula to the ACC.
“Brent’s one of the best defensive minds I’ve ever worked with,” Franklin said. “He knows how to get the most out of his players, and he understands what this place is all about. It’s a great fit.”
From Fired to Focused
Pry’s dismissal in September came the day after a tough loss to Old Dominion - a low point in a rocky tenure. But Franklin didn’t hesitate to bring him back.
“This isn’t about what happened before,” Franklin said. “This is about building the best staff possible, and Brent makes us better.”
Pry echoed that sentiment, saying he’s not dwelling on the past. Instead, he’s focused on what’s ahead.
“I loved being the head coach here, but I also love coaching defense,” Pry said. “I’m ready to get back in the film room, on the practice field, and help these guys grow.”
Full Staff Taking Shape
Pry isn’t the only new addition to the Hokies' staff. Ty Howle, who served as co-offensive coordinator and tight ends coach at Penn State, is expected to take over the offense in Blacksburg. Franklin is moving quickly to assemble a staff that blends familiarity with fresh energy.
Howle’s hire brings a modern offensive approach, and his time with Franklin means there’s already a shared language and philosophy. That continuity could be key as the Hokies look to reboot.
“We want to build something sustainable,” Franklin said. “That starts with culture, and it starts with the right people.”
Building a Foundation - Fast
Franklin is wasting no time. With National Signing Day approaching, he’s balancing staff hires, player evaluations, and recruiting all at once. It’s a whirlwind - but one Franklin seems ready for.
“The next two weeks are going to be crazy,” he said. “But that’s part of the job. I’m excited to get to know our players, get our staff in place, and hit the ground running on the recruiting trail.”
He also made it clear he’s not looking to tear everything down. Instead, he wants to build on the foundation Pry helped lay during his time as head coach.
“Brent built a culture here that we can grow from,” Franklin said. “He cares about this place, and that matters.”
A Three-Year Deal and a Fresh Start
Pry’s new contract is a three-year deal, and while the terms weren’t disclosed, it’s clear both sides see this as more than a short-term reunion. For Pry, it’s a chance to get back to his roots. For Franklin, it’s about trust and alignment.
“I know what Brent brings to the table,” Franklin said. “He’s already making an impact, and we’re just getting started.”
Looking Ahead
There’s no sugarcoating the fact that Virginia Tech has work to do. The Hokies are coming off a stretch of inconsistency, and the ACC isn’t getting any easier. But with Franklin at the helm and Pry back in the defensive room, there’s a renewed sense of direction.
Pry’s return may not have been the most predictable move, but it’s one that could pay off in a big way. He knows the landscape, knows the players, and knows what it takes to build a defense that can compete at the highest level.
“I’m here to coach ball,” Pry said. “And I’m here to win.”
Virginia Tech’s new era is officially underway - and it starts with a familiar face leading the charge on defense.