BLOCKBUSTER DECISION: Son of Former Virginia Tech Standout Makes College Commitment — A Move That Could Shake Up the Entire Landscape

Loren Johnson was a key member of Virginia Tech’s influential 1995 recruiting class—widely considered one of the most pivotal in the program’s history. Alongside fellow defensive backs Keion Carpenter and Pierson Prioleau, Johnson played a crucial role in shaping Virginia Tech’s identity as “DBU,” a reputation the school still proudly maintains today with a steady pipeline of defensive backs heading to the NFL.

Originally from Florida, Johnson had his pick of top-tier programs, including an offer from Oklahoma. But he chose to take a chance on Virginia Tech, drawn by the opportunity to play under a rising young defensive coordinator named Bud Foster. That decision paid off in a big way, as Johnson immediately contributed and went on to become a four-year starter and a two-time All-Big East selection, carving out a standout college career.

Following his playing days, Johnson turned to coaching and has since become one of the most respected high school coaches in the state. He currently leads the powerhouse Highland Springs Springers, a program that’s consistently produced elite-level talent in Virginia.

Now, the spotlight shifts to his son, Braylon Johnson, a rising defensive back from Highland Springs who’s preparing to make a major college decision. At 6-foot-1 and 170 pounds, Braylon has emerged as a top prospect in the 2023 class, drawing 22 scholarship offers from major programs including North Carolina, West Virginia, Oklahoma, Penn State, and Michigan State.

According to an announcement on Braylon’s Instagram page, he plans to reveal his college commitment on Friday, July 1.

His recruitment has heated up, with the South Carolina Gamecocks making a strong push. Their efforts have been spearheaded by head coach Shane Beamer and defensive backs coach Torrian Gray, both of whom are former teammates of Braylon’s father during their time at Virginia Tech.

Despite South Carolina’s momentum, the Hokies have also made Braylon a top priority under the guidance of the new coaching staff. They’re looking to keep him close to home and continue rebuilding strong relationships with in-state programs—especially Highland Springs. That relationship had been strained under the previous staff, making Braylon’s commitment symbolically and strategically important for Virginia Tech.

The Hokies missed out on another legacy recruit, Bryan Jennings’ son, in the 2022 class, but there’s growing optimism around Braylon’s recruitment. Landing him wouldn’t just boost the 2023 class, it would also send a powerful message about reconnecting with Virginia’s top high school talent and re-establishing pipelines that were once key to the program’s success.

Most importantly, Braylon Johnson is a talented and versatile defender—and that’s the main reason Virginia Tech needs to lock him in. He’s not just a legacy; he’s a legitimate game-changer in the secondary.

We’ll be following closely as Friday’s announcement approaches and will provide full coverage of where Braylon decides to take his talents.