We’ve now reached the quieter phase of the offseason as the excitement begins to build toward the start of fall camps next month. The Virginia Tech football team is about two months away from kicking off their 2025 season on August 31st, when they face South Carolina in Atlanta. As the weeks progress, media outlets will gradually unveil their preseason award lists, giving fans and analysts their first glimpse at who might stand out this year.
Last season was quite different in terms of preseason buzz for the Hokies. With plenty of hype swirling around the team before the season began, Virginia Tech had numerous players earning preseason recognition. However, this year’s atmosphere feels more subdued. The offseason saw significant departures through the transfer portal and the NFL Draft, which has somewhat tempered expectations and lessened the noise surrounding the program.
Despite this quieter scene, Athlon Sports recently released its All-ACC Preseason teams, and six Virginia Tech players earned spots on the lists. Interestingly, the group was evenly split between new transfers and returning players, signaling a blend of fresh talent and familiar faces expected to contribute in 2025.
One notable addition to the preseason accolades was Tomas Rimac, a transfer from West Virginia, who secured a spot on the Second Team Offense. Rimac is poised to play a crucial role in Virginia Tech’s effort to rebuild its offensive line under new offensive line coach Matt Moore — someone Rimac is already familiar with from their time together in Morgantown. His experience and talent are expected to provide stability and leadership as the Hokies work to improve an area that needed attention.
On the specialists’ side, two Virginia Tech players earned Third Team honors. Kicker John Love made the list thanks to his powerful leg and consistent performances, qualities that have been evident in his time with the team. Returning punt returner Tucker Holloway also received recognition, marking a hopeful return for the Hokies. Holloway missed much of last season due to an injury, which was a significant blow to the team’s special teams unit. His presence in the lineup again should bolster Virginia Tech’s return game and add an element of explosiveness.
In Holloway’s absence last year, Jaylin Lane stepped in as the punt returner and did an impressive job under head coach Brent Pry. Lane’s contributions didn’t go unnoticed, as his strong performances helped raise his draft stock heading into April. The depth in Virginia Tech’s return game will be an important factor this coming season, with both Holloway and Lane expected to contribute.
Overall, while the preseason hype surrounding Virginia Tech might not be as loud as last year, the presence of six players on Athlon Sports’ All-ACC Preseason lists offers reason for optimism. The mix of new transfers and returning talent hints at a team ready to build, adapt, and compete in a challenging ACC landscape.
As the offseason continues to wind down, fans will be eager to see how these players perform when fall camp opens and the 2025 season officially begins. Virginia Tech’s blend of experienced veterans and fresh faces could provide a foundation for success as they look to make their mark in the upcoming campaign.
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