Virginia Tech’s 2026 recruiting class just got a major boost — and perhaps a foundational piece for the future — with the commitment of standout linebacker Joshua Pittman from King’s Fork High School in Suffolk, Virginia.
Pittman, a 6-foot-2, 215-pound defensive force, announced his commitment earlier this week, choosing the Hokies over several Power Five programs including North Carolina, Penn State, and Tennessee. The decision marks not only a major win for head coach Brent Pry and his staff, but also a signal that Virginia Tech is successfully reestablishing its in-state recruiting dominance.
A dynamic playmaker with sideline-to-sideline speed, Pittman brings the type of physicality and football IQ that could make him an immediate contributor. As a junior at King’s Fork, he recorded over 100 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, and 6 sacks — numbers that highlight his nose for the ball and ability to disrupt offensive schemes.
Recruiting analysts have praised Pittman’s instincts, leadership, and versatility. He’s equally comfortable dropping into coverage as he is rushing the passer, making him a perfect fit for Virginia Tech’s evolving defensive schemes. More importantly, his commitment could be a domino effect for other top-tier recruits in the region.
“This is the kind of player that can change a program’s trajectory,” one analyst noted. “Pittman isn’t just a linebacker — he’s the tone-setter, the guy who leads in the locker room and backs it up on the field.”
For Virginia Tech, a program eager to return to national relevance, Pittman’s addition is more than just a checkmark on a recruiting board — it’s a clear statement. Coach Pry has made defense a central part of his vision for the team, and adding a talent like Pittman is a major step toward building that identity.
With several other high-profile targets still considering the Hokies, Pittman’s early commitment could serve as a catalyst. His decision sends a powerful message: Virginia Tech is not just in the conversation — it’s becoming a destination.
What this means for the Hokies’ 2026 defense is just starting to unfold. If Pittman is the tone-setter many expect, the foundation of something special may have just been poured in Blacksburg.
