Ricky Walker Commits to Virginia Tech

Oct 12, 2013; Blacksburg, VA, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies head coach Frank Beamer walks down the sidelines during the game against the Pittsburgh Panthers at Lane Stadium. The Hokies defeated Pitt 19-9. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports

This news went somewhat unnoticed 9 days ago since most Virginia Tech fans were focusing on the game against Pittsburgh and apporpriately so. However, the Hokies gained a commitment in recruiting that could really impact this team in the rest of recruiting while also being a potential starter in the future. The Hokies got big news that defensive tackle Ricky Walker had chosen  to commit to the Hokies which is a big addition to the Class of 2014 for the Hokies.

So why should Hokie fans be excited about Ricky Walker announcing his decision to commit to the Hokies? Walker is rated as the 25th best defensive tackle by ESPN and is the fifth 4-star prospect from directly out of high school to commit to the Hokies. Walker is also from the Hampton-Norfolk area so his signing is big after the Hokies had missed out on Quin Blanding and Andrew Brown to Virginia. This had seemed like a really bad year for the Hokies in the Chesapeake area but the signing of Walker proves the Hokies still can get some of the top players from that region. The addition of Walker could also help the Hokies in recruiting battles for two other players from that region, WR Jamil Kamara and DT Derrick Nnadi.

Ricky Walker is also the type of player that plays like a player that Virginia Tech fans are used to seeing, tough and physical. Walker is willing to battle and struggle in the trenches while also never giving up on a play which is what you want from a defensive lineman. Walker will also have the chance to redshirt and develop due to the presence of juniors Luther Maddy and Corey Marshall. Walker will have all the opportunities to be successful and should be one of the future star defensive lineman for the Hokies.