Just weeks after his high-profile departure from Penn State, coach James Franklin is already in discussions for a swift return to the sidelines, with negotiations underway for him to take the helm at Virginia Tech.
A Swift Return to the Sidelines
James Franklin, the 53-year-old former Penn State head coach, finds himself at the centre of the college football rumour mill once again. This follows a report from ESPN on Saturday, which revealed that Franklin is currently in the preliminary stages of talks to become the next head coach for the Virginia Tech Hokies.
This potential move comes remarkably quickly after Franklin lost his job at Penn State last month. His dismissal followed a disastrous start to the 2025 season with the Nittany Lions, a performance that prompted the university's athletic department to make a significant change in leadership.
The Record-Breaking Buyout
Franklin's exit from Penn State was not a cheap affair for the university. Reports confirmed that the institution owed the coach more than $49 million as part of his buyout clause. This staggering figure places the settlement among the largest financial payouts in the entire history of college football, highlighting the immense financial stakes involved in top-tier NCAA programs.
The sheer size of the buyout underscores the long-term commitment and significant investment Penn State had initially placed in Franklin's leadership before the team's fortunes took a turn for the worse this season.
What's Next for Virginia Tech?
For Virginia Tech, engaging in talks with a coach of Franklin's calibre signals a clear ambition to revitalise their football programme. While the negotiations are described as being in the 'early stages', the mere prospect of appointing Franklin has generated considerable buzz.
His extensive experience and proven track record, prior to the recent struggles, make him a compelling candidate to lead the Hokies. The college football world will be watching closely to see if these initial discussions develop into a formal appointment, marking a dramatic and rapid comeback for James Franklin.
