The 2024 NFL Draft is planned, but the Virginia Tech Hokies were not selected. This is evidence that Blacksburg’s talent level has declined after a tough few seasons, but head coach Brent Pry has done a phenomenal job of retaining all of Virginia Tech’s top draft-eligible players. It would be fair to point this out.
None were drafted, but two former Hokies signed undrafted free agent contracts: defensive tackles Norrell Pollard and Ferdarius Payne. Pollard signed a contract with the Washington Commanders, and Payne signed with the Houston Texans.
Pollard played in 61 career games over five seasons with the Hokies, mostly as a starter. Pollard recorded 118 tackles, 22 for loss and 12 sacks.
Payne started his career at Nebraska and transferred to Virginia Tech ahead of the 2022 season. Unfortunately, he lost his first season in Blacksburg due to injury. Payne excelled in a rotational role for the Hokies in 2023, recording 31 tackles, including 10 tackles for loss and four sacks.
Former Blacksburg high star and track and field star Cole Beck had two tryouts scheduled. Beck will be with the New York Jets this weekend and the Atlanta Falcons next weekend. Beck is an All-American track and field athlete with two different stints on the football team and possesses world-class speed.
Pollard’s longtime running buddy Mario Kendricks is also scheduled to try out with the Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs this weekend.
We wish the Hokies the best of luck as they try to make their mark in the NFL.
