Dewayne Alford
6-3, 225, DE - Nansemond River HS - Suffolk, Va.
Stats: Had 90 tackles, including 12 for a loss, and five sacks as a senior … Recorded 61 tackles and six sacks as a junior.
Top honors: A second-team All-Tidewater selection by The Virginian Pilot this season … Ranked the No. 32 prospect in Virginia by The Roanoke Times … Rated the No. 30 prospect in Virginia by Rivals … Listed the No. 38 prospect in Virginia by SuperPrep.
Why he chose Tech: “It seemed like home to me. I wasn’t heavily recruited. I had two other offers, but it wouldn’t have mattered. I would have still picked Virginia Tech. They had what I wanted to study, and it was just a good fit athletically and academically. I think I can become the player I want to be there.”
On “grayshirting” and enrolling next January: “It wasn’t a problem with me. I’ll keep working hard, and I’ll take some classes here. I’ll get my body in the best shape possible, so that the curve won’t be as hard. Plus, it’ll give me a chance at a master’s degree, if I want.”
On his projected position at Tech: “They’re looking at me as a defensive end. I feel good about that. I can’t wait to get in there and get better. I can’t wait to start working hard and reach my max potential.”
On his strengths and weaknesses: “I have some stuff I have to get down. Coaches have told me that when they see me play, I’m playing off my athleticism. So I need to get my technique down and refine my skills. I think I have good speed off the ball and quick hand movement, but I need to become more physical and not just rely on finesse.”
Notables: Born Jan. 12, 1993, in Savannah, Ga. … Son of Dewayne and Linda Alford … Has a younger brother, Alan … Contemplated major is human nutrition, foods and exercise … Became the first Nansemond River grad to sign with an ACC school for football … Played for Tracey Parker, who was former defensive end Chris Ellis’ high school coach at Bethel High.
Adeboye Aromire
6-0, 180, CB - H.D. Woodson HS - Washington, D.C.
Stats: Recorded 71 tackles and two interceptions as a junior.
Top honors: Rated the No. 3 prospect in Washington, D.C., and the No. 37 cornerback prospect in the nation by Rivals … Listed as the No. 33 cornerback prospect in the nation by SuperPrep … Ranked the No. 47 cornerback prospect in the nation by ESPN.com/Scouts, Inc. … A second-team All-Met selection by The Washington Post as a defensive back.
Why he chose Tech: “Virginia Tech is prestigious academically, and they have my major [biology]. Athletically, I can come in and prosper as a defensive back. We have a great defensive backs coach and a defensive coordinator who runs a prolific system. They send a lot of players to the league [NFL], and with Rock [Carmichael] leaving, I can come in and compete for playing time.”
On enrolling early at Tech: “I thought it was the best situation for me. I’ll have a semester down as opposed to my other classmates, and I’ll be going through winter workouts and spring ball. I’m definitely trying to compete for playing time next year.”
On his strengths and weaknesses: “I think I have good technique and good footwork. I have good ball skills, and I’m a hard hitter. I have a nose for the ball. I think my footwork and technique can always be better.”
On his favorite player: “Darelle Revis [New York Jets]. He’s the best in the game. He’s a lockdown corner, and you don’t see many of those. He’s got smooth technique, and he makes things look effortless. Things are second nature to him.”
On his most memorable moment: “I’d say winning our third straight city championship. We beat Dunbar, and I had a good game. I had five tackles and returned a fumble 39 yards for a touchdown.”
Notables: Born March 10, 1993, in Landover, Md. … Son of Modupe Aromire … Has an older brother who ran track at Florida before transferring to Maryland and two sisters … Contemplated major is biology, with plans of becoming a pharmacist.
Kevin Asante
6-0, 185, WR - Mallard Creek HS - Charlotte, N.C.
Stats: Finished with 1,003 yards receiving and 14 touchdowns his senior season.
Top honors: First-team All-Mecklenburg County by The Charlotte Observer … A second-team All-Observer selection by The Charlotte Observer … An all-conference pick in I-MECK 4A.
Why he chose Tech: “When I got there, it was the place I wanted to be. It’s a great opportunity for me, and I want to go there and do big things.”
On his strengths and weaknesses: “I’d say speed for me. I can catch. It’s trouble for a cornerback if he’s on me one-on-one. I’m used to seeing double teams. I think I’m strong and tough, too. I need to become a more precise route runner and learn how to read defenders better.”
On the difference between his junior and senior season: “The offensive coordinator. He was real good. He could study defenses like a science, and he could see players. If you could play, it didn’t matter what grade you were in. He would play you.”
On his most memorable moment: “I have two. I scored with 1.5 seconds before halftime in one of our games. I told the coach I wanted to score before halftime, and he decided to go for it. The other team was playing a prevent defense, and I was able to run through all those defenders for a 60-yard touchdown.
“The other one was against our rivals. I scored on the first play of the game and went on to score four touchdowns in the game.”
On his favorite players: “I’d say André Johnson [a receiver for the Houston Texans] and Calvin Johnson [a receiver for the Detroit Lions]. They’re both strong and fast and can beat cornerbacks like it’s nothing.”
Notables: Born Oct. 28, 1992, in Brooklyn, N.Y. … Son of Michael Asante and Betty Adrafie … Has five older brothers … Contemplated major is engineering or something related to coaching.
Michael Cole
6-1, 200, DB - Cave Spring HS - Roanoke, Va.
Stats: Recorded 88 tackles, three interceptions and four fumble recoveries his senior season … On offense, he racked up 1,400 all-purpose yards and scored 16 touchdowns … Finished with 68 tackles as a junior … Also rushed for 576 yards and 11 touchdowns as a junior.
Top honors: Ranked the No. 15 prospect in Virginia by The Roanoke Times … Rated the No. 16 prospect in Virginia by SuperPrep … Listed the No. 21 prospect in Virginia by Rivals … First-team All-Group AA as a senior by The Associated Press.
Why he chose Tech: “After visiting all the schools, it just seemed like home. The coaches have a close bond with the players, and it is close to home for me. I just had an overall feeling that it was the right place for me.”
On his projected position at Tech: “I think I’ll be on the defensive side of the ball. I see myself as an outside linebacker [whip linebacker] after I put on some weight. I played safety in high school, but I’d like to move to outside linebacker. I feel more comfortable in the box.”
On his strengths and weaknesses: “I have good speed for my size, and I have a nose for the ball and can make plays. That’s why I think I’m a fit on defense. I made plays on offense but feel more natural on defense. I’m probably like everyone else – I need to get bigger and faster – and I’ll need to learn to adjust to the speed of the game.”
On his most memorable moment: “My junior year, we beat Northside in the third game of the year. The previous year, we had gone 2-8. Everyone stepped up, and we pulled the win off and went on to win the regional championship.”
Notables: Born Feb. 22, 1993, in Roanoke, Va. … Son of Jim and Mary Cole … Has a younger brother, James … Plays both the piano and guitar … Contemplated major is biology, with thoughts of going into pre-med.
Wedley Estime
6-3, 215, DE - Atlantic Community HS - Delray Beach, Fla.
Stats: Recorded 70 tackles and 11 sacks as a senior … Also forced four fumbles and broke up two passes.
Top honors: Ranked the No. 35 prospect in the South Florida area by The Palm Beach Post … Rated the No. 140 defensive end prospect in the country by ESPN.com/Scouts, Inc.
Why he chose Tech: “It was an opportunity, and I thought it was best for me. I like where they’re going to play me and how they’re going to use me. I feel like they’re going to get me prepared for the next level, which is what I want to do. I think they can help me accomplish my dreams.”
On his high school’s connection with Tech: “That was very helpful. It shows that they [Tech’s coaches] know what they’re doing. I talked with Jayron [Hosley] and Mark [Leal], but they didn’t have to tell me much. I saw everything I needed to see for myself.”
On his strengths and weaknesses: “I go hard. That’s the big thing. I go hard on every play. I need to work on everything. I need to improve my technique and my stance. I need to improve everything.”
On his most memorable moment: “We had a great season here. Everyone gave it everything they had, and we’ve got a great coaching staff here.
“If I had to pick one game, we beat Treasure Coast 6-0, and our defense had three or four goal-line stands. We scored when the quarterback fumbled the snap. I pushed him, and someone else picked up the ball and ran it in for the touchdown.”
On his favorite players: “I watch Jason Pierre-Paul [New York Giants], Julius Peppers [Chicago Bears] and Dwight Freeney [Indianapolis Colts]. I like the way they play the game. They’re good at what they do, and I see the things they do and try to use that to help me tighten my game.”
Notables: Born Sept. 29, 1992, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti … Contemplated major is business.
James Farrow
6-0, 170, CB - Minnetonka HS - Chanhassen, Minn.
Stats: Had 50 tackles with four interceptions as a senior … Registered 33 tackles and three interceptions as a junior … Averaged 46 yards per kick return as a junior, returning three for touchdowns.
Top honors: Rated the No. 2 prospect in Minnesota and the No. 40 athlete prospect nationally by Rivals … Listed as the No. 45 cornerback prospect in the nation by Scout … Ranked the No. 54 cornerback prospect in the Midwest by SuperPrep.
Why he chose Tech: “I could go on for days, but the big thing was my relationship with Coach [Torrian] Gray. It was big to me to be recruited by my position coach as opposed to a recruiting coordinator or an offensive line coach or someone like that.”
On meeting Collin Carroll, another native of Minnesota: “I met Collin on my visit. Actually, I played against his brother twice this season, so I had a chance to meet his parents, too. They’re a great family, and it’s nice to be able to have someone from your area there with you.”
On his projected position at Tech: “I’m coming in as a cornerback. I think I have the feet and the hips and the speed to play corner. Coach [Mike] Gentry will fill me out, I’m sure, so I might be a free safety. But most likely, I’ll be a cornerback.”
On his strengths and weaknesses: “I think I have good football IQ. I have speed and height, and those things can’t be taught. But I think my football IQ sets me apart. I probably need to work on getting out of coverage and playing the run quicker. I need to get bigger, faster and stronger, too.”
Notables: Born Oct. 5, 1992, in Minneapolis, Minn. … Son of Lonnie and Mary Farrow … His father played receiver at Minnesota … Has an older brother [Marcus] and a younger sister [Olivia] … Contemplated major is business.
Jake Goins
6-5, 288, OT - Manchester HS - Midlothian, Va.
Top honors: A first-team selection to the All-Met team by The Richmond Times Dispatch … Ranked the No. 17 prospect in Virginia and the No. 67 offensive tackle prospect in the nation by Rivals … Rated the No. 21 prospect in Virginia by The Roanoke Times and SuperPrep … First-team All-Group AAA by The Associated Press … Played for the South squad in the Chesapeake Bowl held Jan. 3 at Towson University.
Why he chose Tech: “I had been up there for a couple of visits [before committing] and really liked it a lot. They seem like a family there and everyone treated me good. Everyone was nice, and everyone in that community there loves Virginia Tech.”
On his projected position: “I’m guessing tackle at first, and then if that doesn’t work out, then guard. I’ve never played guard before, and I would prefer tackle, but I wouldn’t have a problem either way.”
On his strengths and weaknesses: “I think I have good feet for my size, and I like to run down field with a running back or a receiver and get a block. Every coach told me that when they were watching video of me, they’d see me in the video somewhere.
“I need to keep working on my strength and my speed. I need to work on getting to the next level and blocking linebackers, stuff like that.”
On his favorite players: “As an offensive lineman, I watched Jake Long [offensive tackle for the Miami Dolphins] a lot when he played at Michigan. But my all-time favorite player is Pat Tillman [Arizona Cardinals safety]. He gave up everything for his country [Tillman quit the NFL and joined the Army and was killed in Afghanistan in 2004]. You look back at it, and what he did was awesome. He gave up millions to protect his country. That’s cool.”
Notables: Born Feb. 19, 1993, in Henrico, Va. … Son of Keith and Dee Goins … Has a younger brother, Zach … Contemplated major is international business, with hopes of working and traveling.
Chris Hall
6-5, 232, TE - Dinwiddie HS - Petersburg, Va.
Stats: Playing quarterback, he completed 144 of 271 passes for 2,068 yards, with 18 touchdowns and 11 interceptions his senior season … Also rushed for 1,056 yards and 21 touchdowns as a senior … Threw for 2,677 yards and 23 touchdowns, with 13 interceptions his junior season … Also rushed for 451 yards and six touchdowns.
Top honors: Rated the No. 18 prospect in Virginia by The Roanoke Times … Ranked the No. 24 prospect in Virginia by Rivals and SuperPrep … Second-team All-Group AAA by The Associated Press as a utility player … A first-team All-Met selection by The Richmond Times-Dispatch … The Central Region offensive player of the year.
Why he chose Tech: “The way the atmosphere was, I felt like I was at home. The coaches are great, and they were my No. 1 school growing up. All those things were determining factors.”
On playing tight end at Tech: “I’m fine with it. I’ll do whatever I can to help the team. I don’t think it’ll be a big transition. I used to play receiver my first two years in high school. I’ll have to get used to coming out of a stance and blocking, but we ran a spread offense, and catching a snap is just like catching a pass.”
On his strengths and weaknesses: “I like to overpower people. I like to impose my will when I have the ball in my hands, whether it’s running or throwing. I’ll need to work on blocking, and catching passes from a quarterback.”
On his most memorable moment: “Just my whole senior season. We all came together to get where we got [Group AAA semifinals] and we almost beat the team that won it [Phoebus High]. We made a couple of mistakes in the fourth quarter or it would have been a different game.”
Notables: Born July 21, 1992, in Petersburg, Va. … Son of George Graves and Lisa Lumumba … Has an older brother and a younger brother … Is a terrific bowler and has bowled three perfect games … Major is undecided.
Kris Harley
6-1, 275, DT - Warren Central HS - Indianapolis, Ind.
Stats: Finished with 46 tackles, including seven for a loss, his senior season … Recorded 91 tackles, including 19 for a loss, and 7.5 sacks as a junior when his team won the Class 5A title.
Top honors: A SuperPrep and PrepStar All-American … Ranked the No. 12 defensive tackle prospect in the nation by ESPN.com/Scouts, Inc. … Listed the No. 22 prospect in the Midwest by SuperPrep … Rated the No. 18 defensive tackle prospect in the country by Scout … Named first-team Class 5A in Indiana as a defensive tackle.
Why he chose Tech: “I liked the campus and the people there. They made me feel like a part of the family. And I wanted to play for Coach [Bud] Foster and for Coach [Charley] Wiles. I wanted to be a part of that defense.”
On his projected position at Tech: “I’ll be at defensive tackle. That’s fine with me. I like the physicality of it. I love contact.”
On his strengths and weaknesses: “I think my biggest strength is that I’m explosive and I never give up. I’m relentless. I don’t give up on a play until it is over. I probably need to work on getting off blocks a little better.”
On his favorite player: “My favorite player is Dwight Freeney [of the Indianapolis Colts]. I’ve been told I play like him. He never quits until a play is over with.”
On his most memorable moment: “It had to be last year when we won the state. It was fourth-and-goal in double overtime, and we were on the one-inch line. We called for a quarterback sneak, and I was the fullback on the play. I went up behind him and helped push him in, which is probably illegal. After he scored, I ran 100 yards to the other end zone and just fell down. That was the best moment ever.”
Notables: Born Sept. 22, 1992, in Marion, Ind. … Son of Eddie and Terilyn Hoke … Has an older brother and sister and a younger brother … Contemplated major is management.
Michael Holmes
6-1, 200, RB - Harrisonburg HS - Harrisonburg, Va.
Stats: Rushed 2,878 yards and scored 41 total touchdowns this past season … Had 2,749 yards rushing and 41 total touchdowns as a junior … Rushed for a career-high 413 yards in a game against Robert E. Lee High as a junior.
Top honors: Two-time Group AA offensive player of the year … Rated the No. 16 prospect in Virginia by The Roanoke Times and No. 17 by SuperPrep … Listed as the No. 25 prospect in Virginia by Rivals … Ranked the No. 77 running back in the nation by Scout … A two-time Region III player of the year.
Why he chose Tech: “I liked the staff, and I liked the football program. The coaches were nice and straight with you.”
On the impact of Darren Evans’ and Ryan Williams’ departures: “That really didn’t impact my decision. I had made my decision before then. I would have worked hard and tried to earn playing time even if they were coming back.”
On his production as a tailback: “That shows I had good teammates and a good offensive line. I didn’t think I could do that, but really, everyone else made it possible.”
On his favorite player: “My favorite player is Michael Vick [quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles]. He’s a great overall player. He can throw it, and he can break tackles running it. My favorite running back is Adrian Peterson [of the Minnesota Vikings] because he’s such a hard runner.”
On his most memorable moment: “I scored the game-winning touchdown in the playoffs against Amherst this year. There were 20 seconds left, and we were losing. The quarterback threw it to me, and I caught it and went about 45 yards [actually, 44] to win the game [28-23].”
Notables: Born June 2, 1993, in Staunton, Va. … Son of Michael and Tonya Holmes … Has a younger brother and a younger sister … Contemplated major is biology because of an affinity for animals.
Kyshoen Jarrett
5-10, 1175, CB - East Stroudsburg South - Tannersville, Pa.
Stats: Tallied 36 tackles and four interceptions his senior season … Also played on offense as a senior, rushing for 1,200 yards and catching 500 yards worth of passes … Finished with 43 tackles, 12 break-ups and four interceptions as a junior … As a sophomore, had 45 tackles and two interceptions.
Top honors: A SuperPrep and PrepStar All-American … Listed as the No. 6 prospect in Pennsylvania and No. 12 cornerback prospect in the nation by SuperPrep … Rated the No. 18 cornerback prospect in the nation and the No. 5 prospect in Pennsylvania by Rivals … Ranked the No. 17 cornerback prospect in the nation by Scout.
Why he chose Tech: “It was a great fit for me. After everything that happened with Pittsburgh and Coach [Dave] Wannstedt getting fired [Jarrett had been committed to Pittsburgh], Virginia Tech was the first to call me. I just felt it was a great place and a great fit for me. The visit just reaffirmed that.”
On his projected position at Tech: “I’m a cornerback, and I feel like I bring some things to the position. I like being on an island and shutting down a receiver. The position was a little out of the ordinary for me – I didn’t play until I was a freshman. But I love it.”
On his strengths and weaknesses: “Everyone doubts my speed, but I have better game speed than timed speed. I think I’m good at jamming receivers at the line of scrimmage, too. But I think I need to get better at every aspect of the game, and Coach [Torrian] Gray will help me do that.”
On his most memorable moment: “It was our third game, and we were playing Scranton. On offense, I had a 70-yard touchdown, and on defense, I got an interception to end the game.”
Notables: Born May 4, 1993, in Bronx, N.Y. … Son of Vinise Capers and Shoen Jarrett … Has three older brothers … Contemplated major is business management.
Demitri Knowles
6-0, 175, WR - Liberty Christian Academy - Lynchburg, Va.
Stats: Had 25 catches for 338 yards and six touchdowns as a senior.
Top honors: Rated the No. 27 prospect in Virginia by The Roanoke Times and No. 33 by SuperPrep … Listed the No. 183 wide receiver prospect nationally by Scout … A second-team all-state selection in Division I of the Virginia Independent Schools Athletic Association.
Why he chose Tech: “I like the football program and the track program. I liked the feeling I got when I talked to the coaches. That was the main reason.”
On his strengths and weaknesses: “I think I run good routes, and I get off the ball well. I think I have good hands. Obviously, I need to work on knowing the game better. I’ve only been playing two years.”
On how he got started in football after coming from the Bahamas: “When I was in the Bahamas, I went to a camp and won a trip to Baltimore to watch the Ravens. Then my dad started looking into Christian schools in the United States that had football, and that’s how I ended up here at LCA and playing football.”
On the sports he played as a kid: “I swam competitively, and then I started doing track. I did individual sports when I was younger. At first, I didn’t like football, but now I do. I like the whole brotherhood aspect, and things are changing all the time [within a game]. So many things can happen, and that’s exciting to me.”
On the adjustment of coming to the States: “I traveled a lot with swimming and track, so I was used to being away from my parents. When I moved here, I was homesick for about two weeks, but then I got used to it.”
Notables: Born Oct. 9, 1992, in Freeport, Bahamas … Son of Keith and Jacqueline Knowles … Has an older and younger brother … Taught himself to play the piano … Contemplated major is marketing.
Robert Lockhart
6-2, 175, WR - West Boca Raton HS - Delray Beach, Fla.
Stats: Caught 34 passes for 686 yards and six touchdowns as a senior … Played on defense and had 86 tackles and six interceptions … Also had four forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.
Top honors: Rated the No. 42 wide receiver prospect in the nation by ESPN.com/Scouts, Inc. … A first-team all-area selection by The Palm Beach Post … A Class 6A-5A-4A Palm Beach All-County selection as a defensive back by The Sun Sentinel.
Why he chose Tech: “It’s the place where I felt most comfortable with the players and the coaches. I liked the environment there. I thought Virginia Tech was the best fit for me.”
On his MVP performance in the Palm Beach County-Treasure Coast All-Star game (he caught four passes, two for touchdowns): “Recruiters knew about me before that game, but I wanted to go out and prove myself. I wanted people to say, ‘Who’s that guy?’ I thought I played well, but I could have played better.”
On his strengths and weaknesses: “I think I can do it all. I’m good after the catch, and I catch the ball at its highest point. I’m a deep threat.
“I think I need to get stronger. I weigh 180 now, and I probably need to get to 200. I’m not sure, though. I just need to get stronger.”
On his favorite player: “Michael Crabtree [San Francisco 49ers receiver]. He’s a great route runner and he catches the ball at its highest point. He can make plays after the catch, too.”
On his most memorable moment: “I’d say our team banquet. We were a close group, and it was a chance to say good-bye to everyone.”
Notables: Born Jan. 31, 1992, in Boca Raton, Fla. … Son of Robert, Sr., and Lyn Lockhart … Has two older sisters … Is an outstanding basketball player who averages more than 20 points per game … Major is undecided.
Luther Maddy
6-1, 280, DT - Atlantic Community HS - Delray Beach, Fla.
Stats: Recorded 78 tackles and 13 sacks his senior season.
Top honors: Rated as the No. 130 defensive tackle in the country by ESPN.com/Scouts, Inc. … Ranked the No. 32 player in the area by The Palm Beach Post … Named a Class 6A-5A-3A football second-team All-Palm Beach County selection by The Sun-Sentinel … Named first-team all-area as a defensive lineman by The Palm Beach Post.
Why he chose Tech: “After my visit, I loved it. I talked with the coaches, and I had a good feeling. I felt like it was the place where I belonged.”
On his high school’s connection with Tech: “That was a big factor [in his decision]. I talked with Mark [Leal] and Jayron [Hosley] a lot, and they told me what a great school it was. They told me that since I was from Atlantic, I needed to come up there and do my thing.”
On his strengths and weaknesses: “I’d say my quickness is one of my strong points. I also use my hands well, and I have good feet and good technique. I need to work on staying low. Sometimes, I get too high. I need to be more consistent with that.”
On his favorite player: “Warren Sapp [former Tampa Bay Buccaneer and Oakland Raider]. Every snap, he goes hard. The line of scrimmage is his. He’s consistent and aggressive. I just love the way he played.”
On his most memorable moment: “I’d say just this entire year. We were a very strong group, and we had a great season. We made it to the playoffs and lost in the second round in the final few seconds. We had a great season, and I really enjoyed it.”
Notables: Born Jan. 18, 1993, in Boynton Beach, Fla. … Son of Junelle and Nuraline Maddy … Has five brothers and a sister … Contemplated major is business.
Ryan Malleck
6-5, 240, TE - Point Pleasant Borough HS - Point Pleasant, N.J.
Stats: Caught 36 passes for 652 yards and nine touchdowns his senior season … Had 63 tackles, four sacks and three interceptions on defense … Caught 23 passes for 500 yards and three touchdowns as a junior.
Top honors: Listed as the No. 16 prospect in New Jersey by SuperPrep … Rated the No. 22 prospect in New Jersey by Rivals … Ranked the No. 40 tight end prospect in the country by ESPN.com/Scouts, Inc. … Rated the No. 48 tight end prospect in the nation by Scout.
Why he chose Tech: “It came down to the coaching staff. I felt comfortable with Coach [Frank] Beamer and Coach [Bryan] Stinespring. The facilities were nice, too. I haven’t seen any other school that had facilities like Virginia Tech. They blew the others away. For me, it was an easy decision.”
On thinking about staying closer to home because of his dad’s health: “That wasn’t much of an issue. He had a heart transplant back in August, and he’s doing well. It’s not that far to Virginia, and we have family in Virginia, so when he and my mom come down for games, they’re going to stay with them.”
On his strengths and weaknesses: “I think I can stretch the field. I can get vertical, and I think I can get down the field fast. I probably need to work on my blocking. I haven’t done much of it because I was basically split out as a receiver here. But I’m willing to do it.”
On his favorite player: “Jeremy Shockey [New Orleans Saints tight end]. I grew up watching him when he was with the Giants. I love how he plays. He’s one of my favorites.”
Notables: Born July 22, 1993, in Teaneck, N.J. … Son of Stephen and Karen Malleck … Has an older brother, Steve, and a younger sister, Kerry … Also plays basketball and had been receiving interest from Division III schools in that sport … Major is undecided.
Corey Marshall
6-2, 252, DE - Dinwiddie HS - Petersburg, Va.
Stats: Recorded 122 tackles, including 27 for a loss, and 14 sacks as a senior … Also caused six fumbles … Finished with 112 tackles, including 21 for a loss, as a junior.
Top honors: A SuperPrep and PrepStar All-American … Ranked the No. 5 prospect in Virginia by The Roanoke Times and SuperPrep … Listed the No. 7 prospect in Virginia and the No. 21 defensive end prospect in the nation by Rivals … First-team All-Group AAA by The Associated Press … A first-team All-Met selection by The Richmond Times-Dispatch.
Why he chose Tech: “When you go to Virginia Tech, the atmosphere is great. It’s a great environment to further your education, and Coach [Bud] Foster and his staff are such great teachers. I feel like I can learn a lot and improve myself as a player.”
On his strengths and weaknesses: “I get off the ball quick, and I try to set the tone. I know how to use leverage. I’m only 6-2, but I feel like I have an advantage by using leverage and using hand placement. I can get to the quarterback in a variety of different ways.
“I need to work on the mental aspect of the game and improve my technique. I need to get bigger, too.”
On his favorite players: “I like Elvis Dumervil [of the Denver Broncos] and John Randle [retired from the Minnesota Vikings]. They’re two smaller, almost hybrid types, and they know how to use leverage and speed to be successful.”
On his most memorable moment: “We played Liberty-Bealeton in the playoffs my sophomore year and the score was 14-14. I stripped the running back, picked up the ball and ran it back for a touchdown. I also had a sack and an interception, and we made the state semis.”
Notables: Born Many 18, 1993, in Dinwiddie, Va. … Son of Joyce Combs Marshall … Has a younger brother and sister … Contemplated major is journalism … Is a huge fan of NFL Network’s Rich Eisen.
Darius Redman
6-4, 240, TE - H.D. Woodson HS - Washington, D.C.
Stats: Hauled in nine passes for 195 yards and four touchdowns this past season … Caught 11 passes as a junior.
Top honors: Listed the No. 17 prospect in the Mid-Atlantic by SuperPrep … Rated the No. 65 tight end prospect in the nation by Scout … Ranked the No. 69 tight end prospect in the country by ESPN.com/Scouts, Inc. … A second-team All-Met selection by The Washington Post as a tight end.
Why he chose Tech: “It’s a great school. When I first met the coaches, they were straight up with me and I liked that. I knew how good a school it was, so all those things made me want to go to Virginia Tech. And there have been some players from H.D. Woodson who have gone there and done well. Josh Morgan [a former Tech receiver now with the San Francisco 49ers] is from here and he’s in the NFL now.”
On his projected position at Tech: “I’m a tight end. I like everything about the position. You have to block, and you have to be able to run routes. I feel like I’m a mismatch against a linebacker. I think I can stretch a defense.”
On his strengths and weaknesses: “I think I run good routes, and I have a good work ethic. I have to get every pass that comes my way. I probably need to work on getting out of my breaks quicker.”
On his favorite player: “It’s Vernon Davis [former Maryland tight end now with San Francisco]. I love the way he gets yards after the catch and just his speed. He’s a wide receiver in a tight end’s body. I’ve met him a couple of times at his camp, and he’s a nice guy.”
On his most memorable moment: “My junior year, I scored on an 85-yard touchdown catch, and that was a school record for a tight end. That was my first touchdown on varsity.”
Notables: Born May 9, 1993, in Washington, D.C. … Son of Michael and Denise Redman … Has two older brothers and an older sister … Major is undecided.
Christian Reeves
6-3, 215, TE - Eagles Landing Christian Academy - McDonough, Ga.
Stats: Caught 43 passes for 872 yards and 11 touchdowns as a senior … Caught 26 passes for 584 yards and four touchdowns as a junior.
Top honors: Rated the No. 29 tight end prospect in the nation and the No. 48 overall prospect in Georgia by Rivals … Listed the No. 35 tight end prospect in the nation by ESPN.com/Scouts, Inc. … Ranked the No. 48 prospect in Georgia by SuperPrep.
Why he chose Tech: “It really was the complete package. They had everything I was looking for – great coaches, a great school academically and a great football program. They were well rounded. I really liked the coaches a lot. That was probably the big thing.”
On his projected position at Tech: “I’ll be on the offensive side of the ball, either at H-back or tight end or possibly receiver. It just depends on how my body develops. I have the frame to get bigger.”
On his strengths and weaknesses: “I would say my ball skills and body control are my biggest strengths. When the ball is in the air, I’m going to go up and go get it. I have good hands and good speed, too. I probably need to improve my first step [off the line of scrimmage] and learn to read coverages better.”
On his most memorable moment: “We finished 10-0 this season and won the regional championship. We beat the No. 2-ranked team, and I had one of my best games. I played both ways [cornerback and receiver] and had a good all-around game. I caught seven or eight passes for 140 yards and a touchdown and a 2-point conversion.”
Notables: Born Jan 20, 1993, in Atlanta, Ga. … Son of Scott and Michelle Reeves … Has one older brother and two younger brothers and a younger sister … Contemplated major is business.
Matt Roth
6-3, 225, DE - Nease HS - St. Augustine, Fla.
Stats: Recorded 65 tackles, including 17 for a loss, his senior season … Also forced two fumbles, had a fumble recovery and an interception and scored a touchdown … Had 88 tackles, including 27 for a loss, and 13.5 sacks his junior season … Also forced four fumbles that season.
Top honors: Rated the No. 14 defensive end prospect in the nation and the No. 72 overall prospect in Florida by Rivals … Ranked the No. 29 defensive end prospect in the country by ESPN.com/Scouts, Inc. … Listed the No. 100 prospect in the nation by Scout … A first-team selection to the St. Augustine Record’s 2010 All-County team.
Why he chose Tech: “It’s a top football program, and that’s the level I want to play on. They also have one of the best building construction programs in the country, and that’s what I want to study.”
On his projected position at Tech: “They’re looking at me as a defensive end, and that’s where I want to play. I like rushing the passer.”
On his strengths and weaknesses: “I feel like I have a great first step and get off on the ball quickly, and I use my hands well. I know how to use leverage to stop the run. I need to get bigger and stronger to compete on that level and to get off blocks better.”
On his favorite player: “I would say Jared Allen [of the Minnesota Vikings]. He’s got a high motor and plays with intensity. He’s always making plays.”
On his most memorable moment: “I dropped into coverage during one of our games, and the ball was tipped. I intercepted it and took it about 30 yards for a touchdown.”
Notables: Born Feb. 19, 1993, in Ocala, Fla. … Son of Jeff and Annette Roth … Has a younger sister, Samantha … Plans on majoring in building construction, with thoughts of getting into design or being a supervisor.
Ronny Vandyke
6-3, 200, DB - South County HS - Lorton, Va.
Stats: Finished with 106 tackles, including 13 for a loss, his senior season … Also intercepted three passes, returning two for touchdowns, and he blocked three punts.
Top honors: A SuperPrep and PrepStar All-American … Ranked the No. 21 safety prospect in the nation and the No. 8 prospect in Virginia by Rivals … … Rated the No. 11 prospect in Virginia by The Roanoke Times and SuperPrep … First-team All-Group AAA by The Associated Press … A first-team All-Met selection by The Washington Post as a defensive back
Why he chose Tech: “When I went down there first as a sophomore, I felt good about the school. They were always a consistent option for me. Then I got to know the staff, and the terminology they use on defense is similar to what we used. It just felt like it was the place for me to be.”
On his projected position at Tech: “Coach [Bud] Foster told me I’m athletic enough to be a rover or free safety. I’ll probably start out at rover. I was a whip in high school, but it doesn’t matter to me. Wherever I can get on the field the fastest.”
On his strengths and weaknesses: “I think I tackle well in space, and I’m good at reading my keys. I’m a good leader. I probably need to be more vocal because you have to talk on defense. There are always things you can do to be a better all-around player.”
On missing his junior season: “We were in two-a-days, and I was going to get off a block. He got underneath my arm, and I tried to pull away and I dislocated my shoulder. I knew it as soon as it happened. I had to have surgery, and I couldn’t believe it. But it’s good now.”
Notables: Born Nov. 3, 1992, in Fairfax, Va. … Son of James Solomon Vandyke and Gifty Addy … Has an older sister, a younger sister and a younger brother … Contemplated major is psychology or mechanical engineering.
