The Brent Pry era at Virginia Tech has been all about rebuilding a proud football program and restoring its identity as a defensive powerhouse. For years, Lane Stadium thrived on the back of aggressive defenses and playmaking safeties who set the tone on Saturdays. Now, the Hokies have thrown their name into the ring for one of the most coveted defensive backs in the 2026 class: four-star safety.
Top star isn’t just another name on a recruiting board. The four-star talent has quickly risen through the national rankings thanks to his size, instincts, and versatility. At 6-foot-plus with elite closing speed, Chandler fits the mold of a modern safety who can cover the deep third, step into the box against the run, or blanket receivers in man coverage. His highlight reels are filled with explosive hits and game-changing interceptions, making him one of the most complete safety prospects in the country.
College programs are taking notice, and Chandler has already stacked up an impressive list of suitors. Powerhouses across the ACC and SEC have been in contact, but the Hokies are looking to make a serious push and position themselves as more than just another name in his recruitment.
Why Chandler Is a Perfect Fit for the Hokies
If there’s one position that embodies Virginia Tech football, it’s safety. From legends like Kam Chancellor to contemporary standouts, Tech’s tradition in the secondary runs deep. Brent Pry and defensive coordinator Chris Marve are working hard to revive that reputation, and Chandler could be the centerpiece of their future secondary.
Virginia Tech’s defense has shown flashes of promise under Pry, but consistency has been an issue. Chandler’s ability to read quarterbacks and disrupt plays would be a major boost. More importantly, his presence would send a strong message that the Hokies can still win recruiting battles for elite talent — something that has eluded the program in recent years.
The Competition for Chandler
Landing Chandler won’t be easy. Programs with deeper pipelines and bigger NIL backing are already circling. ACC rivals like Clemson and Florida State have been aggressive in targeting top-tier defensive backs, while SEC powers are always looming for four-star prospects in Chandler’s caliber.
The challenge for Virginia Tech is to convince Chandler not just of the program’s history, but of its future. That means showcasing the opportunity for early playing time, the chance to be the face of a rebuilding defense, and the ability to write his name alongside some of the school’s all-time greats. Pry has been vocal about wanting players who embrace building something special — Chandler fits that mold.
What This Means for Virginia Tech’s Recruiting Momentum
Adding Chandler to the fold would be more than just signing a blue-chip recruit. It would mark a turning point in the Hokies’ recruiting strategy, showing that Pry and his staff can compete with national brands for elite defensive playmakers. Pairing Chandler with recent young additions in the secondary could create a foundation for a dominant defense for years to come.
It’s no secret that Virginia Tech’s rebuild has faced its share of growing pains on the field. But on the recruiting trail, momentum matters just as much. Chandler’s commitment could spark a ripple effect, drawing in other four-star prospects who see Blacksburg as a place where they can make an immediate impact.
Final Thoughts
The race for Jarrell Chandler is heating up, and Virginia Tech has officially entered the fray. Whether or not the Hokies can ultimately secure his commitment will depend on their ability to showcase both their tradition and their vision for the future. But make no mistake — this is the kind of battle that could define Brent Pry’s tenure.
For a program desperate to prove it can still attract premier defensive talent, Chandler isn’t just another target. He’s the type of player who could help turn the tide in Blacksburg. The question now is simple: can Virginia Tech win this race and bring a four-star safety home to anchor its defense of the future?