Virginia Tech's Kyron Drones: The Heisman Darkhorse Ready to Shine!

Miami Gardens, USA - The Virginia Tech Hokies are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting 2025 football season, with the summer offering a blend of anticipation and preparation as ACC Media Days loom on the horizon. Among the centerpieces of this season’s narrative is quarterback Kyron Drones, who is set to build upon the momentum from a strong finish to the 2023 season, showcasing the potential to be a darkhorse candidate for the Heisman Trophy, as SI.com reports.

Drones‘ impressive stats from last season include 1,562 passing yards, 10 touchdowns, and 336 rushing yards with another six touchdowns. If that wasn’t enough, he also has shown his ability to lead on the field, enjoying standout moments even as he faced setbacks—including missing four games due to injury, which included a bowl loss. A minor medical procedure in the spring has put him back on track, and new offensive coordinator Phillip Montgomery has praised Drones‘ leadership during spring practices.

Transformation on Offense

As the Hokies prepare for a season opener against a tough South Carolina defense, a transformation in the offensive lineup is underway. The 2025 squad will feature changes across the backfield, wide receiver group, and offensive line. Drones, still recovering from his past injuries, must elevate his game amidst the transformation, with college football analyst Josh Pate emphasizing that the Hokies are potential playoff and ACC title contenders, dependent largely on Drones‘ ability to refine his passing and rushing stats.

While Drones has been a promising leader, Virginia Tech also welcomes a new face to the quarterback room: William „Pop“ Watson. Displaying noteworthy athleticism last season, particularly during a rivalry win over Virginia, where he earned an impressive 87.3 Pro Football Focus grade, Watson adds depth to the roster. His performance, including 254 passing yards and 48 rushing yards without any turnovers, suggests that he could be poised to take on a larger role if needed.

New Additions and Competitive Spirit

The quarterback landscape for Virginia Tech extends beyond Drones and Watson. The team has recently added three new quarterbacks: Garret Rangel, who transfers from Oklahoma State, and true freshmen AJ Brand and Kelden Ryan. While Rangel had modest stats during his time at Oklahoma State, Brand arrives with considerable accolades, having been named South Carolina’s Gatorade Player of the Year.

As the Hokies press on, Drones remains focused on the advice he received from the legendary Michael Vick, who encouraged him simply to „go out there and be myself.“ Drawing parallels between the two, Vick’s legacy as a dynamic runner at Virginia Tech inspires Drones, who recorded substantial rushing numbers himself, boasting 818 rushing yards and five rushing touchdowns last season.

This season, with Drones at the helm and a renewed spirit among the team, Hokies fans have plenty to look forward to. With consistent improvement a priority and a roster brimming with promise, the collective hope across the fans is palpable for a thrilling season ahead.