BLACKSBURG, Va. \u2013 The tight end position plays an important role in Virginia Tech\u2019s offense, particularly under first-year coach James Franklin.<\/p>\n
Franklin\u2019s system asks tight ends to be more than blockers or pass catchers. They are expected to be versatile enough to contribute in multiple ways, making the position a key piece of the Hokies\u2019 offensive identity.<\/p>\n
Virginia Tech enters the season with a deep and experienced tight end room, including Bassett native Ja\u2019Ricous Hairston and recent transfer Luke Reynolds.<\/p>\n
For Hairston, the focus during fall camp has been on mastering the playbook while understanding how his physical and athletic abilities can best fit into the offense.<\/p>\n
\u201cJust taking time, diving into the playbook, knowing what I can athletically do and then what I can physically do,\u201d Hairston said. \u201cThis camp is just playing confident and consistent.\u201d<\/p>\n
Reynolds said the depth within the position group has created a competitive environment in which every tight end is capable of making an impact.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe have a very talented group top to bottom,\u201d Reynolds said. \u201cEveryone can go in there at any point and contribute. So that\u2019s kind of just the standard of the tight end room.\u201d<\/p>\n
Franklin said the combination of returning players and newcomers has created a veteran group that has embraced the competition.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey\u2019ve been great,\u201d Franklin said. \u201cThe combination of what was here and what we brought in, I think we got a veteran experience group. I think the competition is something they\u2019ve all embraced.\u201d<\/p>\n
The tight ends also bring plenty of size to the position. Every player in the room is listed at 250 pounds or more, giving Virginia Tech a physical presence that can be valuable in both the running and passing games.<\/p>\n
That combination of size, experience and versatility could make the tight end room one of the more important position groups as the Hokies begin their first season under Franklin.<\/p>\n
For Virginia Tech, the goal is clear: develop a group capable of doing whatever the offense needs \u2014 a true Swiss Army knife at the tight end position.<\/p>\n
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