Virginia Tech has recruited well on the defensive side of the ball over the past several classes, including 23 prospects in total in 2009 and 2010. there appears to be good depth in place at defensive line and linebacker, but defensive back, specifically safety, appears to be one of the bigger overall needs in the 2011 class. Tech is recruiting other positions, though, and is heavily in the running for top prospects at defensive line and linebacker.

2011 Needs: Defense

DEFENSIVE LINE
DE
2011 Roster Projection – 8 scholarships
– Chris Drager, Senior
– Isaiah Hamlette, Junior
– J.R. Collins, Sophomore; James Gayle, Sophomore; Tyrel Wilson, Sophomore
– Zack McCray, R/S Freshman or Sophomore; Duan Perez-Means, R/S Freshman or Sophomore; Justin Taylor, R/S Freshman or Sophomore

DT
2011 Roster Projection – 8 scholarships
– Kwamaine Battle, Senior
– Antoine Hopkins, Junior; Joe Jones, Junior; Courtney Prince, Junior; Dwight Tucker, Junior
– Nick Acree, R/S Freshman or Sophomore; Derrick “Skip” Hopkins, R/S Freshman or Sophomore; DeAntre Rhodes, R/S Freshman or Sophomore

“Defensively, I’ve always said that it’s what’s up front that counts. So you better be good on your defensive line.” – Virginia Tech head coach Frank Beamer on Signing Day 2010.

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