Virginia Tech Lands Former Penn State Tight End Luke Reynolds

Virginia Tech added a key offensive piece on Sunday, securing the commitment of tight end Luke Reynolds through the NCAA transfer portal. Reynolds, a former five-star recruit, spent the last two seasons at Penn State, where he played in every game and developed into a versatile offensive contributor. His move to Blacksburg reunites him with Ty Howle, now Virginia Tech’s offensive coordinator and tight ends coach, who played a pivotal role in Reynolds’ original decision to join Penn State.

The transfer was anticipated after Reynolds entered the portal with a “do not contact” designation. His arrival at Virginia Tech promises continuity in offensive philosophy, as Howle’s system emphasizes tight end involvement, mirroring the offense Reynolds thrived in during his time with the Nittany Lions. This familiarity could allow Reynolds to make an immediate impact in Blacksburg.

At 6-foot-4 and 253 pounds, Reynolds brings both receiving and blocking skills to the Hokies. His combination of size, athleticism, and experience makes him a valuable addition to a Virginia Tech offense looking to expand its options at tight end.

With two years of eligibility remaining, Reynolds becomes Virginia Tech’s first portal addition from Penn State under head coach Brent Pry, signaling a commitment to targeted transfers who can contribute right away.

1. College Career and Production

Reynolds played behind Tyler Warren as a freshman in 2024, contributing nine receptions for 111 yards and one touchdown. He also made a memorable impact on special teams, converting a 32-yard fake punt run against Minnesota, a pivotal play in Penn State’s College Football Playoff run. In 2025, following Warren’s departure to the NFL, Reynolds assumed a larger role in the receiving game. He finished the year with 26 receptions for 257 yards and added two carries for 26 yards. His most productive receiving game came against Villanova, with four catches for 73 yards, and he concluded the season with two receptions for 28 yards in the Pinstripe Bowl against Clemson. Pro Football Focus highlighted Reynolds’ blocking as a standout aspect of his game. He earned a 73.8 pass-blocking grade and a 68.2 run-blocking grade, complementing a 57.0 receiving grade. He also demonstrated playmaking ability after the catch, generating 163 of his 257 receiving yards on extended plays or after contact. Over two seasons at Penn State, Reynolds compiled 35 receptions for 368 yards and one touchdown, alongside three rushing attempts for 58 yards, showing versatility and reliability in multiple offensive roles.

2. High School Pedigree and Recruiting

Before his college career, Reynolds starred at Cheshire Academy in Connecticut, where he transitioned from quarterback to tight end. His senior season featured 48 receptions for 754 yards and nine touchdowns, averaging 15.7 yards per reception. Reynolds’ talent was nationally recognized, with 247Sports ranking him as the No. 29 overall player and the top tight end in the 2024 recruiting class. His combination of athleticism and size made him a highly sought-after recruit, which translated into immediate opportunities at Penn State. The relationship with Howle, who coached him at Penn State, was a key factor in Reynolds’ development and now serves as a bridge to Virginia Tech. Reuniting with a familiar coach provides continuity in his positional usage and offensive responsibilities. This pedigree ensures that Reynolds arrives in Blacksburg as a polished, NFL-caliber prospect with both experience and potential to elevate Virginia Tech’s offensive schemes.

3. Impact at Virginia Tech

Reynolds’ arrival gives Virginia Tech a versatile, proven tight end capable of contributing in the passing game, blocking schemes, and special teams. His skill set fits Howle’s offensive system, which heavily emphasizes tight end involvement, allowing him to step into a meaningful role immediately. With two years of eligibility remaining, Reynolds adds depth and talent to a position that has historically been critical for the Hokies’ offensive success. His presence can help balance the passing attack, provide additional blocking support, and create mismatches in both the red zone and intermediate routes. Beyond his on-field contributions, Reynolds brings experience from a high-profile program, offering leadership and insight to younger players on the roster. His knowledge of high-level competition and playoff environments can help guide Virginia Tech’s tight ends and overall offensive unit. Ultimately, Reynolds’ transfer represents a strategic coup for the Hokies, combining talent, familiarity with the coaching staff, and immediate impact potential, positioning Virginia Tech for an upgraded offensive season in 2026.