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Virginia Tech Finalizes James Franklin Hire as Penn State Buyout Drops

A negotiated payout reportedly shrank to about $9 million, accelerating Franklin’s move into Blacksburg with immediate staff-building.

Overview

  • Virginia Tech announced Franklin as head coach and scheduled his formal introduction for Wednesday.
  • Penn State and Franklin negotiated a substantially reduced buyout reported at about $9 million, far below an original $49 million figure.
  • Franklin has begun building his Virginia Tech operation, with reports that he is targeting former Penn State AD Sandy Barbour for a senior personnel and recruiting role.
  • Penn State AD Pat Kraft posted public congratulations on X, prompting a flurry of fan reactions and commentary about the timing.
  • Clemson’s Dabo Swinney praised the hire as a strong fit for the ACC, while analysts forecast an immediate recruiting jolt for the Hokies.