BREAKING: 5-Star WR Shocks the Nation, Commits to Virginia Tech Over Gators, Texas, and Tennessee
In a stunning turn of events that has sent shockwaves throughout the college football landscape, 5-star wide receiver Jamari Thompson has announced his commitment to Virginia Tech, turning down powerhouse programs such as the Florida Gators, Texas Longhorns, and Tennessee Volunteers. Thompson, ranked as the No. 2 wide receiver in the 2025 recruiting class by multiple scouting services, made his decision public via a live stream watched by thousands of fans and analysts nationwide.
This commitment represents one of the biggest recruiting victories in recent Virginia Tech history. The Hokies, traditionally considered a defensive powerhouse with a solid but less flashy offensive profile, managed to out-recruit some of the nation’s top programs. Florida, Texas, and Tennessee each offered Thompson not only elite facilities and coaching staffs but also larger media exposure and NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities.
Thompson, a 6-foot-2, 190-pound speedster from Atlanta, Georgia, has long been considered a game-changer on the field. Known for his explosive acceleration, crisp route running, and highlight-reel catches, he racked up over 1,500 receiving yards and 18 touchdowns in his junior year alone. His performance at national showcases like the Elite 11 and Under Armour All-America camp turned heads and solidified his status as one of the most coveted recruits in the nation.
During his announcement, Thompson cited Virginia Tech’s coaching staff, culture, and family-oriented atmosphere as key factors in his decision. “Everyone expected me to choose one of the bigger names, but Virginia Tech showed me love from day one,” Thompson said. “They believed in me not just as a player, but as a person. I’m ready to build something special in Blacksburg.”
This commitment is a major win for Virginia Tech head coach Brent Pry, who has been quietly rebuilding the program and focusing on bringing elite talent to the Hokies. Pry and his staff made Thompson a top priority early in the recruiting cycle and stayed consistent in their messaging and visits.
Recruiting analysts are already labeling this move as a potential “program-changer” for Virginia Tech. “Getting a player like Jamari Thompson doesn’t just boost your offense—it boosts your brand,” said 247Sports recruiting expert Steve Wiltfong. “This could signal a new era for Virginia Tech football.”
On the flip side, the decision is a bitter blow to Florida, Texas, and Tennessee—all of whom had hosted Thompson for official visits and were considered frontrunners at different points. Each of those programs had built offensive schemes that seemed tailor-made for Thompson’s talents, making his eventual choice even more surprising.
With Thompson’s commitment, Virginia Tech now boasts one of the top recruiting classes in the ACC and is beginning to draw national attention. If the Hokies can continue to land top-tier talent like Thompson, they may soon reestablish themselves as a force to be reckoned with—not just in the conference, but on the national stage.
