Virginia Tech Strengthens 2026 Recruiting with QB Troy Huhn and OT Maddox Cochrane

Virginia Tech’s football program is accelerating its rebuild under head coach James Franklin, focusing first on two key areas: quarterback and offensive line. Just days after flipping 6-foot-7 offensive tackle Maddox Cochrane from Wisconsin, Franklin has secured a cornerstone lineman to anchor the Hokies’ offensive front for the 2026 and 2027 seasons.

Adding to the excitement, four-star quarterback Troy Huhn has committed to Virginia Tech, according to Hayes Fawcett of Rivals. The 6-foot-4, 215-pound signal-caller was previously pledged to Penn State, making his decision a notable win for Franklin as he continues to attract talent familiar with his system.

Huhn’s commitment highlights the credibility Franklin has established in recruiting, showing that top-tier offensive prospects see Virginia Tech as a destination with opportunity and growth. With both a future quarterback and a blue-chip left tackle secured, the Hokies are laying the foundation for a revitalized offense.

The additions also reinforce the school’s investment in Franklin, whose five-year, $41.75 million contract includes a $15.5 million assistant pool and strong program funding. That level of support provides recruits with confidence in staff stability, resources, and a commitment to competing at the top of the ACC.

1. Offensive Line Anchor in Maddox Cochrane

Maddox Cochrane’s decision to join Virginia Tech from Wisconsin provides the Hokies with a significant boost on the offensive line. At 6-foot-7, he offers both size and versatility, traits essential for protecting the quarterback and controlling the line of scrimmage. Cochrane’s presence gives the Hokies a reliable blindside protector, allowing Franklin to develop a more defined offensive identity. Having a blue-chip lineman in place early allows the staff to build the offensive scheme around the strengths of their personnel. This signing also signals to other offensive prospects that Virginia Tech is serious about its rebuild. When a highly rated lineman chooses the Hokies over other programs, it reinforces the perception that Blacksburg is becoming a competitive destination for elite talent. By anchoring the line with Cochrane, Virginia Tech has addressed one of its most critical needs, setting the stage for both immediate and long-term success in the trenches.

2. Quarterback Troy Huhn’s Commitment

Troy Huhn’s pledge to Virginia Tech adds a significant playmaker to the Hokies’ offense. Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 215 pounds, Huhn is a prototypical Power Four quarterback with the size, arm talent, and athleticism to thrive in Franklin’s system. Previously committed to Penn State, Huhn’s decision to flip to Virginia Tech underscores the trust recruits place in Franklin’s leadership. It also shows the appeal of a system and coaching staff that a player already understands from prior recruitment interactions. Huhn benefits from a strong supporting cast, including Cochrane on the offensive line, ensuring he has protection while learning and executing Franklin’s scheme. This combination increases the likelihood that he can develop into a long-term starting quarterback for the program. The commitment demonstrates that Virginia Tech is beginning to attract high-level talent capable of making an immediate impact while also shaping the foundation for a multi-year rebuild.

3. Building the 2026 Blueprint

The additions of Cochrane and Huhn mark the beginning of a tangible blueprint for Virginia Tech’s 2026 class. These early commitments create momentum, showing recruits that the Hokies are serious about returning to prominence in the ACC. With Franklin’s substantial contract and assistant funding, the program offers stability and resources that appeal to recruits and their families. The school’s support signals a commitment to competitiveness rather than settling for mid-tier performance. By stacking top-tier offensive talent, Virginia Tech can begin to reshape its identity and style of play. The combination of a future franchise quarterback and a dominant lineman provides a strong foundation for an offense capable of producing big plays and controlling games. If the Hokies continue to secure elite prospects at key positions, Blacksburg could soon see a revitalized program capable of challenging for ACC championships and returning to national relevance.