Changes were inevitable, but few expected them to unfold with such intensity. As the program restructured its foundation, key positions had to be swiftly adjusted, signaling a new direction. The moves weren’t just routine replacements—they were bold, strategic decisions aimed at elevating every aspect of the team. With fresh minds stepping in and a renewed focus on development, the stage is set for a transformation that could reshape the season ahead.
The Hokies moved quickly to fill the offensive line vacancy, securing Matt Moore’s services in under two weeks. Virginia Tech capitalized on the dismissal of West Virginia’s coaching staff, bringing Moore on board in what was widely considered a major improvement for Pry’s staff.
However, the hiring process for a new defensive coordinator took longer, as Virginia Tech waited until after the College Football Playoff to make a decision. Ultimately, the Hokies landed Arizona Cardinals linebackers coach Sam Siefkes. While it remains to be seen how successful Siefkes will be, he brings a solid résumé. He has a track record of success as a defensive coordinator at smaller college programs and received strong endorsements from both current and former NFL head coaches.
Virginia Tech’s coaching shuffle took another unexpected turn when offensive coordinator Tyler Bowen left to become Ohio State’s offensive line coach. To fill the vacancy, the Hokies made a bold move, hiring former Tulsa head coach Phillip Montgomery, who previously served as an offensive coordinator at Baylor and Auburn. This addition was widely praised as another major win for Pry’s staff.
On the strength and conditioning front, Virginia Tech opted to promote from within, elevating Hokie legend Jarrett Ferguson to the head strength coach position. Ferguson, a former standout player for Virginia Tech, boasts an impressive background in strength training and wasted no time implementing several key changes since stepping into the role in January.
Naturally, new coordinators often prefer to bring in their own trusted assistants, and recent NCAA rule adjustments have allowed for expanded coaching staffs and more flexibility in assigning responsibilities. Siefkes and Montgomery both took advantage of this, adding several familiar faces to their respective units. Montgomery also brought in his son, Cannon Montgomery, for a staff role. Cannon is highly regarded within coaching circles and is expected to be a valuable addition.
Beyond the key hires, Virginia Tech also made a series of internal staff adjustments and new appointments. Here’s a breakdown of the latest changes:
Staff Members Taking on New Roles:
- Shawn Quinn: Transitioned to outside linebackers coach after previously handling Stars/Nickels.
- Xavier Adibi: Moved up from an analyst position to inside linebackers coach.
- Brent Davis: Shifted from assistant offensive line coach to tight ends coach. (Stu Holt will continue as special teams coach while also serving as an offensive assistant.)
New Coaching Additions:
- Jens Danielsen: Hired as assistant offensive line coach.
- Cannon Montgomery: Named assistant running backs coach.
- Jireh Wilson: Appointed as edges (edge rushers) coach.
- Bryan Whitehead: Takes over as nickels coach.
Danielsen arrives from West Virginia, where he previously worked alongside Moore. Montgomery, a former college receiver, brings coaching experience from Tulsa, Houston, Houston Christian, and Auburn. Wilson, who played under Siefkes at Wofford, most recently coached at Kennesaw State. Meanwhile, Whitehead reunites with Siefkes, having worked together at Wisconsin-Platteville.
With these hires finalized, Virginia Tech’s revamped coaching staff is now set for the upcoming season, bringing both continuity and fresh perspectives to Pry’s program.
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