After parting ways with defensive coordinator Chris Marve, Virginia Tech head coach Brent Pry quickly filled the vacancy by turning to the NFL, hiring Arizona Cardinals linebackers coach Sam Siefkes to lead the defense.
The Hokies’ defense is undergoing a significant overhaul following the departure of several key players to the NFL, including Antwaun Powell-Ryland, who was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles, and Aeneas Peebles, who joined the Baltimore Ravens. With multiple positions now open, there will be intense competition during summer camp.
On Monday night, Virginia Tech landed a major transfer portal addition in defensive lineman Immanuel Hickman from South Florida. Hickman, a 6-foot-3, 295-pound edge rusher originally from Virginia, brings veteran experience to the Hokies’ defense. Over 31 games with the Bulls, he recorded 90 tackles. He began his college career at East Carolina in 2019 before transferring to South Florida.
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With much of last season’s defensive line talent gone, Hickman offers a valuable presence for Siefkes’ first year as coordinator. He becomes Virginia Tech’s seventh portal addition this spring and has one year of eligibility remaining.
Plenty of position battles are expected in camp, as incoming transfers aim to compete with returning players eager to step into starting roles after spending time behind last year’s stars.
