Ethan Grunkemeier is expected to join the Hokies

The Virginia Tech Hokies seem poised to make it one of the biggest significant transfer portal additions in the off-seasonas momentum continues to build around former Penn State running back Ethan Grunkemeier joining the Hokies.

Multiple local insiders have indicated that the redshirt freshman is headed to Blacksburg, reuniting with the coaching staff that originally recruited him. According to several reports, Virginia Tech has emerged as expected destination.

“Current expectation is that Penn State transfer QB Ethan Grunkemeier will reunite with James Franklin at Virginia Tech, sources tell On3 sports. Pete Nakos posted on X, formerly Twitter.”

The move would once again tie Grunkemeier to the head coach James Franklin, offensive coordinator Ty Howell, and quarterbacks coach Danny O’Brien.

Grunkemeier’s path to prominence began unexpectedly during the 2025 season. He entered the year as Penn State’s backup and then was thrust into a starting role Drew Allar suffered a season-ending ankle injury late in the Northwest game.

Grunkemeier responded by stabilizing the offense and helping the Nittany Lions close out the season with four straight wins, capped by a win in the Pinstripe Bowl over the Clemson Tigers.

Statistically speaking, the former four-star recruit had a steady campaign. He completed 123 of 178 passes for 1,339 yards, eight touchdowns and four interceptions, finishing with a 69 percent completion rate.

While he offers functional mobility, Grunkemeier is viewed primarily as a pocket passer, an element Virginia Tech looks to add after losing its top three quarterbacks from last season.

For Franklin, Grunkemeier was viewed internally as a priority option to lead the program in 2026. Penn State thrives with Rock Bechtthe door has opened for a reunion that benefits both sides. Should the transfer become official, Virginia Tech is expected to continue to explore portal options for depth, but Grunkemeier would step in immediately as a foundation piece.

The expected addition signals a clear direction for the Hokies — stability at quarterback, familiarity within the system and a roster built to take a significant step forward in 2026.