Virginia Tech quarterback Kyron Drones is being sidelined for the rest of spring practice due to a minor medical procedure, according to a statement released by head coach Brent Pry on Saturday afternoon. While Pry did not specify the nature of the procedure or how the injury occurred, he expressed confidence that Drones will be ready to return in time for summer workouts, noting the quarterback’s strong leadership and productive offseason performance.
Drones, a Baylor transfer, initially made his mark in the 2023 season as a rising star and potential long-term answer under center for the Hokies. In his breakout campaign, he threw for 2,084 yards with 17 touchdowns and just three interceptions, completing 58.2% of his passes. That season culminated in a successful 7-6 record and a commanding 41-20 Military Bowl win over Tulane.
However, his 2024 season didn’t match those highs. The Hokies struggled, finishing 6-7 after squeaking into the Duke’s Mayo Bowl with a key 37-17 win over in-state rival Virginia. Drones was hampered by injuries throughout the year, and his performance dipped as a result. He completed the season with 1,562 passing yards, 10 touchdowns, and six interceptions on significantly fewer attempts compared to 2023.
With Drones battling injuries, true freshman William “Pop” Watson III began to emerge as a contender for the starting role. Watson got meaningful playing time late in the season, notably throwing for 146 yards against Duke despite an interception. He followed that performance with a strong showing against Virginia, throwing for 254 yards, rushing for 48 more, and accounting for two touchdowns in the Hokies’ crucial rivalry win.
As spring practices continue and with the annual spring game approaching, much attention will remain on Drones’ recovery timeline and the ongoing quarterback competition. Though Pry emphasized Drones’ leadership and outlook for summer, the door appears open for Watson—or any other emerging talent—to make a case for starting duties if Drones isn’t fully back to form.
Would you like a timeline of Virginia Tech’s recent quarterback developments?
Leave a Reply