Virginia Tech has strengthened its quarterback depth for the 2025 season with the return of starter Kyron Drones and backup William “Pop” Watson III, the team announced on Friday.
Drones, who started nine games this season but missed three due to a foot injury, led the Hokies with 1,562 passing yards and 10 touchdowns, alongside six interceptions. The redshirt junior from Houston also ranked second on the team in rushing yards (336), rushing touchdowns (6), and carries (98). Had he entered the transfer portal, Drones would have been one of the most sought-after quarterbacks.
Watson, a redshirt freshman from Massachusetts, made his first start against Virginia, helping Virginia Tech secure a bowl berth and extend its winning streak in the Commonwealth Cup rivalry. He threw for 254 yards and a touchdown in the game. Over the season, Watson appeared in four games, amassing 400 passing yards, a touchdown, and an interception. He played behind Drones and Collin Schlee, who started three games but was injured during a loss to Duke.
These announcements come one day after Virginia Tech made several coaching changes, including at offensive line coach, following a season in which the Hokies ranked 91st nationally in sacks allowed.
Virginia Tech, which finished the regular season with a 6-6 record, will face Minnesota in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl on January 3.
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