Virginia Tech Bolsters Quarterback Depth with Addition of Oklahoma State Transfer Garret Rangel
Virginia Tech faced a turbulent end to its 2024 football season, largely due to instability at the quarterback position. Starter Kyron Drones, a central figure in the Hokies’ offense, was sidelined for four of the team’s final five games after sustaining injuries in late October. With Drones out, head coach Brent Pry had to rely on backup options — UCLA transfer Collin Schlee and freshman Pop Watson — to close out the year.
The quarterback situation remained uncertain heading into the 2025 offseason. In early April, just a week before Virginia Tech’s spring game, Pry announced that Drones would not participate due to a minor medical procedure. Then, in an unfortunate turn, Watson was also ruled out for the game because of an injury. As a result, redshirt freshman Davi Belfort received increased reps during the spring showcase, giving fans a glimpse of the team’s next-man-up options.
However, Belfort’s time in Blacksburg was short-lived. Following the spring game, he entered the transfer portal and eventually committed to Central Florida. His departure left a notable vacancy in the Hokies’ quarterback depth chart — specifically the third-string spot behind Drones and Watson. While incoming freshmen A.J. Brand and Kelden Ryan show promise for the future, their lack of collegiate experience meant that Pry needed a more seasoned presence in the QB room.
On Wednesday, Virginia Tech addressed that need by securing a commitment from Oklahoma State transfer quarterback Garret Rangel. The 6-foot-2, 205-pound Texas native was a highly regarded four-star recruit out of high school and originally committed to play for Mike Gundy’s Cowboys. During his tenure at Oklahoma State, Rangel amassed over 1,000 passing yards and threw eight touchdowns. His game experience in a Power Five program makes him a valuable addition to the Hokies’ roster.
With Drones expected to be healthy and resume his role as QB1 this summer, Rangel enters the fold as a strong candidate to compete for the backup job against Watson. Given the unpredictability of injuries — something Virginia Tech experienced firsthand last season — Rangel’s presence provides an essential insurance policy. He brings maturity, poise, and game-tested ability, qualities that could prove crucial if the Hokies are again forced to turn to their depth chart during the 2025 campaign.
Rangel’s addition late in the transfer portal window is not only timely but also strategically significant. It highlights Pry’s commitment to building a deep and prepared quarterback unit that can endure the challenges of a long and grueling ACC schedule
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