PSU Football
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News—Nov. 15, 2025
James Franklin Reportedly in Talks with Virginia Tech
Former Penn State Head Coach James Franklin is reportedly in early talks with Virginia Tech regarding its vacant coaching job per ESPN. Franklin has been rumored to be a candidate for several current openings including Va. Tech. One media source has suggested that if no deal is in place by Nov. 20 then this is likely the end of any dealings between Franklin and the Hokies.
Ironically, if Franklin were to be hired for the job in Blacksburg, VA, he would replace his own former assistant (at both Vanderbilt & PSU) Brent Pry who was let go in September after an 0-3 start. Pry was Franklin’s DC or co-DC at Penn State from 2014 through 2021. Also, former Nittany Lion middle linebacker, Jan Johnson, is one of the assistants at Virginia Tech.
Franklin taking the job at Tech could be uncomfortable for Penn State fans since such close proximity of the two schools could be a lure for both current Nittany Lion players and the current classes of recruits.
