Virginia Tech’s newly appointed defensive coordinator, Sam Siefkes, has secured his first recruit since stepping into the role in January. Joshua Pittman, a linebacker from King’s Fork High School, has committed to the Hokies, becoming the first defensive pledge of their 2026 recruiting class.
Pittman had garnered attention from numerous programs, with 14 scholarship offers listed by 247Sports and a few more reported by On3. Ultimately, Virginia Tech triumphed over several ACC rivals, including Duke, North Carolina, Pitt, and Syracuse, as well as Big Ten and Big 12 programs like Michigan State, West Virginia, and Indiana. Initially, Pittman had indicated that he would wait until summer to finalize his decision, but it appears the Hokies made an early offer that sealed the deal.
On the field, Pittman has made a name for himself with his disruptive presence in the backfield. He frequently beats offensive tackles around the edge, blowing up option plays and forcing quarterbacks to scramble. His quick burst off the snap is matched with solid patience when tracking plays from the outside. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing around 210 pounds, Pittman’s long frame helps him close in on plays, including last-second ankle tackles. However, scouts note that his pad level can be inconsistent, and his relatively light frame makes it challenging for him to anchor the edge consistently. Adding weight and refining technique will be key focuses once he arrives in Blacksburg.
Despite his rawness, Pittman’s film showcases clear potential as a run-stopper and edge rusher. At times, he allows the defense to dictate the play; at others, he disrupts the action before it can unfold. His versatility stands out—he has expressed comfort both as a traditional linebacker and in a pass-rushing role. “I like rushing the passer,” Pittman said in a recent interview. “I can do both. I can stand up, play linebacker, or whatever. I feel like I’m a great fit for any team as a player and as a person.”
The Virginia Tech coaching staff envisions him as a traditional edge defender, though his success in that role will depend on how effectively he can add muscle, ideally reaching around 225 pounds. That kind of physical development will be crucial to earning a spot in the defensive rotation.
With veteran Antwaun Powell-Ryland moving on, Virginia Tech’s defensive end position is wide open. Pittman enters at an opportune time, with a chance to compete early and potentially become a key part of the Hokies’ future defense.
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