The Virginia Tech Hokies added another valuable piece to their 2027 recruiting class on Wednesday, when three-star running back Javian Jones–Priest revealed his decision.
Jones-Priest is the third running back to commit to Virginia Tech’s 2027 class, following Kelvin Morrison (Hermitage, PA) and Stanley Smart (Savannah, GA). The 5-foot-10, 194-pound Jones-Priest plays at Martin High School in Arlington, Texas.
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Jones-Priest picked the Hokies over offers from Oregon, Florida, TCU, and a host of others.
Why the Hokies?
“Virginia Tech has recruited aggressively since they offered,” he told Sam Spiegelman of Rivals. “They made me feel like a priority, and showed it by having me as their first official visitor and only recruit on campus a few weeks back. While I was there, Coach (James) Franklin was super cool and genuine. Everything just felt right. I’m excited about the direction of the program under his direction, and it seems like other top players around the country are feeling the same way.”
Jones-Priest specifically mentioned running backs coach Norval McKenzie as the reason he picked Tech. McKenzie has made a significant impact on the recruiting trail since his hiring.
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To aggressively pursue Jones-Priest with two running backs already committed and with Messiah Mickens (2026 class) on campus, gives you an idea of how much the Hokies wanted him.
Virginia Tech’s 2027 class now has 13 commitments. Jones-Priest is a three-star recruit, according to 247Sports’ in-house rankings, while On3/Rivals has him as a four-star. The 247Sports’ composite rankings have Jones-Priest as a four-star.
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