Hokies Football: Top Remaining Class of 2015 Recruiting Targets

5. DE Darrell Taylor

Darrell Taylor is a four-star defensive end from Hopewell High School in Hopewell, Virginia that has been a top target for the Virginia Tech Hokies for much of the process. On September 26th, Taylor announced that he had committed to play for the Tennessee Volunteers over the Hokies.

However, Virginia Tech seems to be gaining a little bit of momentum.

After Tennessee received an official visit in early October, it seemed like Tennessee had sealed the deal, but Taylor decided to take an official visit to Virginia Tech on December 12th. Now, it seems like the Hokies have gained some momentum, and have a chance at getting the four-star defensive end.

Taylor is ranked as the 12th best player in Virginia by the 247 Sports Composite, 11th best by ESPN, and 13th best by Rivals in what is another strong group of talented recruits from Virginia. Taylor is ranked as the 35th best athlete by ESPN, 12th best weak-side defensive end by the 247 Sports Composite, and 10th best weak-side defensive end by Rivals.

Tennessee still seems likely to hold onto Taylor as Butch Jones has done a great job of finishing off recruiting classes while in Knoxville. However, Taylor’s Hokie primary recruiter Shane Beamer has done a great job of making it interesting, and Virginia Tech’s need for a defensive end after losing Josh Sweat has to also be helping.

Tennessee seems likely to still hold on to Taylor’s commitment, but don’t count out the Hokies just yet.

Next: VT May Beat FSU, Miami for a Rising Florida DE