Hokie ClubBLACKSBURG – The Hokies' defensive line is set to make a powerful impact this season as Fall Camp progresses. With a blend of standout portal additions and returning talent, and under the guidance of associate head coach J.C. Price along with assistant coach/quality control Jan Johnson Jr., this unit aims to enhance a defense that ranked No. 20 nationally in total defense last season. Every week of Fall Camp, the position preview series, presented by Farm Bureau Insurance, will break down the Virginia Tech football roster. In this position preview, let's look at the defensive line and how it adds to the anticipation for this season’s defensive potential.
Redshirt senior Antwaun Powell-Ryland is a force to be reckoned with and one of the key reasons Lane Stadium lived up to the nickname ‘Sacksburg’ last season. In his first year as a Hokie, Powell-Ryland played in all 13 games, starting 12, and became the cornerstone of a defensive line that was second in the ACC in sacks while consistently limiting opponents to under 250 passing yards per game. His impact was undeniable, registering 40 tackles and a team-leading 9.5 sacks—ranking second in the ACC and 14th nationally. The Portsmouth, Virginia native also tallied 14.5 tackles for loss, placing him 25th in the country and fifth in the ACC.
These numbers earned Powell-Ryland a spot on the 2023 All-ACC Second Team and a 2023 Phil Steele Honorable Mention All-American nod. The edge rusher also secured the No. 72 spot on On3’s Top 100 Players in College Football. Pro Football Focus (PFF) further highlighted his abilities, ranking him as one of the highest-graded returning edge rushers in the ACC with an 80.7 overall grade.
One of the key questions surrounding this position group is who will join Antwaun Powell-Ryland in the starting rotation on the edge. Four returning players are vying for that spot: Keyshawn Burgos, Cole Nelson, Jorden McDonald and CJ McCray. Nelson brings valuable experience to the field, having played in all 13 games last season with seven starts. He totaled 27 tackles, including 7.5 for loss and 4.5 sacks, proving himself as a consistent force on the edge. Burgos is another name to watch, especially after being listed at No. 21 on ESPN’s Post-Spring Sleeper Pick Watchlist. He played in all 13 games last season, recording 21 tackles, including five tackles for loss. The Chesterfield, Virginia native made a strong case for himself during the spring game, where he notched three sacks, four solo tackles, and a pass breakup. McDonald and McCray round out the group, further offering veteran presence and potential. The competition for the starting edge position will be fierce, with each player bringing a unique skill set and the potential to make a significant impact on the Hokies' defensive line.
Other returners with limited in-game experience include Jason Abbey and James Jennette. These players have a chance to demonstrate their progress to coaches Price and Johnson, vying for more playing time. Alabama transfer Khurtiss Perry will also slate in as a potential impact player on the edge. Freshmen Deric Dandy boasts an impressive high school résumé and will benefit from learning alongside this seasoned defensive line group, gaining valuable time to develop.