Hokie ClubBLACKSBURG – With the 2024 season quickly approaching, the Hokies boast one of their strongest position groups: cornerback. Under the expert guidance of defensive recruiting coordinator and cornerbacks coach Derek Jones, this unit is brimming with talent. Dorian Strong stands out as a pivotal player, widely recognized as one of the premier cornerbacks in the ACC, solidifying Tech’s formidable presence on defense. 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 key players who will make this position group a true strength for the emerging season.
One of the key factors behind Virginia Tech’s defensive success was the lockdown coverage provided by their cornerbacks. Last season, the Hokies never allowed more than 250 total passing yards in a game and held two teams under 100 passing yards. The exceptional coverage, particularly from Strong, was instrumental in anchoring Tech’s defense.
In the newly released EA Sports College Football 25, Strong is ranked as the 75th best player in the nation and the 9th highest-rated cornerback. These rankings complement a long list of accolades, including being named a 2023 Action Network Second Team All-American and to the 2023 All-ACC Third Team. Additionally, he is ranked No. 45 on On3’s Top 100 college football players, secured the eighth spot on Pro Football Focus’ (PFF) top 10 returning cornerbacks and most recently earned a place on the 2024 Preseason All-ACC Football Team.
Heading into his fifth year, the Upper Marlboro, Maryland native is widely recognized by national analysts as one of Virginia Tech's top players, with true NFL potential attributed to his exceptional mirroring ability, footwork and quickness. According to PFF, the senior led all FBS cornerbacks in completion rate allowed (27.3%) and yards allowed per coverage snap (0.24), while ranking second in passer rating allowed (11.8) and allowing the fewest catches with just nine. The defensive back also contributed 25 tackles, including 18 solo, registered eight pass breakups and three interceptions.
Mansoor Delane, who lines up opposite Strong, is another key player to watch in Virginia Tech's secondary. Delane made quite an impact in his sophomore year. As a full-time starter in 2023, the sophomore demonstrated his potential as a future top cornerback with 54 tackles and nine pass breakups on 11 passes defended. While Delane complements Strong, together they form a formidable duo expected to elevate the secondary significantly this season.
The Hokies have been busy confidently adding depth to their secondary with promising emerging talent, particularly from sophomores Braylon Johnson and Dante Lovett. Johnson, who gained valuable experience playing in all 13 games last season, is set for a significant increase in playing time and could earn his first collegiate start. Lovett has potential to slot into the nickel role after defending three passes and tallying a fumble recovery during his freshman year.