Lucas Austin, a 6-foot-6, 287-pound offensive tackle from Sterling, Illinois, has announced his decision to transfer from West Virginia University (WVU) to Virginia Tech.
This move marks the third instance of a Mountaineer offensive lineman joining the Hokies, following the earlier transfers of guard Tomas Rimac and center Kyle Altuner.
Austin redshirted his freshman year at WVU in 2024, preserving four years of eligibility. Initially recruited as a tight end during his junior year of high school, he transitioned to the offensive line, demonstrating versatility by playing both left tackle and left guard positions. Beyond football, Austin was a two-time all-state and all-conference basketball player, holding records as his high school’s all-time leading scorer, rebounder, and three-point shooter.
During his recruitment, Austin received a three-star rating from 247Sports, ranking as the No. 40 tackle in the 2024 class and the No. 12 player in Illinois. He garnered over a dozen offers from programs including Army, Dartmouth, and Northwestern, ultimately choosing West Virginia.
His decision to enter the transfer portal and commit to Virginia Tech aligns him with familiar coaching staff and former teammates, potentially easing his transition and integration into the Hokies’ system. The addition of Austin, along with Rimac and Altuner, is expected to bolster Virginia Tech’s offensive front, which is set to feature several new faces due to graduations and previous transfers.
Analysts have compared Austin to Los Angeles Rams tackle AJ Arcuri, noting his coordination, tenacity, and potential for development. While he has room to improve in strength and pass protection techniques, his raw tools and demeanor suggest he could become a Power Five starter with the opportunity to play beyond college.
The influx of former WVU players to Virginia Tech highlights a developing pipeline between the two programs, facilitated by coaching changes. This trend underscores the influence of coaching relationships in player transfers, as athletes often seek continuity and familiarity when changing programs.
As Virginia Tech prepares for the 2025 season, the revamped offensive line will be crucial in supporting the team’s offensive strategy. The Hokies are set to face challenging opponents early in the season, including an opener against South Carolina in Atlanta, followed by a home game against Vanderbilt. The performance of the offensive line, with newcomers like Austin, will play a significant role in the team’s success against these formidable SEC teams.
In summary, Lucas Austin’s commitment to Virginia Tech represents a strategic addition to the Hokies’ offensive line. His athletic background, combined with existing relationships with coaching staff and teammates, positions him to make a meaningful impact in the upcoming season. As he transitions from a redshirt year at WVU to potential playing time at Virginia Tech, Austin’s development will be closely watched by both fans and analysts.
