The Virginia Tech Hokies have finalized their transfer portal acquisitions for the 2026 season, securing a single transfer running back along with a promising recruit for the backfield. This analysis will explore the impact of these new additions alongside the team”s returning players.
Notably, the Hokies have welcomed a new running backs coach, Norval McKenzie, who previously held the same position at Georgia Tech. Under the leadership of head coach James Franklin, known for his emphasis on a strong running game, changes to the offensive structure seem imminent.
Expected to take the reins as the starting running back is Hawkins, who was given the starting nod nine times in the 2025 season. Joining the Hokies as a redshirt junior, Hawkins previously played three seasons at the Division II institution Central Missouri. In his 11 appearances last year, he averaged an impressive 6.3 yards per carry, totaling 749 rushing yards from 118 attempts, and found the end zone twice—once on the ground against Wake Forest and once through the air against NC State.
With Franklin”s new offensive scheme, Hawkins possesses the potential to surpass 1,000 rushing yards if he maintains his starting position throughout the season.
The Hokies also secured Messiah Mickens, a four-star running back who was the first recruit to join the team following Franklin”s hiring. At 5″10″, Mickens was previously committed to Penn State and is recognized as a top-10 player in Pennsylvania. As the 2024 Gatorade Player of the Year in Pennsylvania, he surpassed the 1,000 rushing yard mark twice during his high school career, scoring a total of 64 touchdowns. His commitment to the Hokies came despite offers from powerhouse programs such as Alabama, Georgia, and Ohio State.
Another returning player, redshirt freshman Jeffrey Overton Jr., made limited appearances last season due to injury but showed promise in his four games. Overton started once and averaged 5.8 yards per carry on 25 attempts, including a standout 38-yard touchdown run against the Miami Hurricanes. However, an ACL tear in December 2024 raises concerns about his long-term prospects.
In addition to the returning players and recruits, the Hokies added redshirt junior Bill Davis from Louisiana. Davis, standing at 5″9″, is known for his power running style. While he may not boast elite speed, his average of 3.53 yards after contact last season suggests he can help wear down opposing defenses throughout the grueling season.
Mason, another redshirt sophomore, has had limited opportunities in Blacksburg, amassing just 59 rushing yards in his career and scoring his only touchdown through the air against Old Dominion last season. With McKenzie now at the helm, there is potential for any of the five running backs to emerge as a standout during spring practices.
Overall, the Hokies possess a diverse and talented group of running backs heading into the new season, with Hawkins likely to lead the charge. The competition for playing time will be fierce, and it will be intriguing to see how each player fits into Franklin”s system.
