The last couple of days have done nothing but yielded good results for Virginia Tech football coach Brent Pry with the transfer portal. Monday, the Hokies picked up two commitments on the defensive side of the ball that have the potential to be big pickups.
Mercer defensive lineman Arias Nash committed to the Hokies and late Monday night, Eastern Michigan linebacker James Djonkman committed to Virginia Tech giving their new defensive coordinator, whoever Pry ends up hiring, two very good pieces. Also Monday, Oregon transfer Jaeden Moore visited Blacksburg and it was thought that his two final choices were between Virginia Tech and ACC for Pittsburgh. Tuesday, his decision was made and he is going to an ACC school, just not in the Commonwealth.
Jaeden Moore commits to Pittsburgh over Virginia Tech
Tuesday afternoon, Pete Nakos of On3 reported that Moore was signing with Pittsburgh over the Hokies which is a big blow to rebuilding Tech's defensive line. This past season for the Ducks, Moore was a redshirt freshman at outside linebacker and defensive end. He has three years of eligibility remaining.
Oregon linebacker Jaeden Moore has signed with Pitt, @On3sports has learned.https://t.co/VxSGJETKD9 pic.twitter.com/kZ2iORVs5q
— Pete Nakos (@PeteNakos_) January 7, 2025
Whether Pry saw Moore at linebacker or along the line, this a recruiting loss for the Hokies. The 6-foot-4, 245-pound athletic defender is ready to have a breakout season with the Panthers after a limited role with Oregon.
Yes, landing Moore would have been a huge recruiting win for Virginia Tech as they were heavily involved with his recruiting, but this has still been a good portal window for Tech in terms of adding talent and depth on both lines. Say what you will about Pry's coaching ability in games, his big work is being done off the field and bringing in talent that will make an impact. There is still work to be done for a roster that is having a big turnover in 2025.