BREAKING: 3-Star Offensive Tackle Buddy Wegmans Commits to Virginia Tech Over Duke, Michigan, and NC State
BLACKSBURG, VA — In a major recruiting development for the Virginia Tech Hokies, 3-star offensive tackle Buddy Wegmans has officially announced his commitment to play for the Hokies, turning down compelling offers from Duke, Michigan, and NC State. The 6-foot-6, 295-pound lineman out of Cedar Grove High School in Atlanta, Georgia, made the announcement Friday evening via a livestream ceremony held at his high school gymnasium, drawing cheers from teammates, coaches, and a sizeable crowd of Hokie fans watching online.
Wegmans, rated as the No. 42 offensive tackle in the nation by 247Sports and the No. 59 overall player in Georgia, had narrowed his choices to four finalists after an impressive junior season. Though Michigan made a late push with an official visit to Ann Arbor just two weeks ago and Duke had a strong academic pitch, it was Virginia Tech’s culture, offensive line development, and strong relationship with head coach Brent Pry that sealed the deal.
“From day one, Virginia Tech felt like home,” Wegmans said during his commitment speech, donning a maroon Hokies cap. “Coach Pry and Coach Rudolph showed real belief in me—not just as a player, but as a person. I want to be part of something special, and I believe Blacksburg is the place where I can grow and help bring championships back to Tech.”
A Big Win for the Hokies
Wegmans’ commitment is a significant boost to Virginia Tech’s 2026 recruiting class, which now climbs into the top 25 nationally. Known for his gritty work ethic, strong hands, and surprising lateral agility, Wegmans has been praised by scouts for his ability to hold up against speed rushers while also excelling in run-blocking schemes. Virginia Tech offensive line coach Joe Rudolph has made Wegmans a priority since the beginning of the cycle, attending multiple Cedar Grove games and even hosting the prospect’s family during a key spring visit.
“He’s one of the most coachable, high-character kids I’ve ever worked with,” said Cedar Grove head coach Marvin Bell. “Virginia Tech is getting a cornerstone lineman. Buddy doesn’t just play hard—he leads, he studies, and he lifts up the guys around him.”
Turning Down Bluebloods
While Wegmans gave serious consideration to Michigan, the Wolverines’ depth at tackle and shifting offensive system after Jim Harbaugh’s departure reportedly played a role in his decision. Duke, which had emerged as a dark horse thanks to their focus on academics and NIL opportunities, was in the final running as well. NC State, long considered a strong contender due to proximity and early interest, fell off late in the process after a coaching shakeup on the offensive staff.
Wegmans made visits to all four schools but described his official visit to Virginia Tech earlier this spring as “life-changing,” citing the camaraderie among players and the family atmosphere around the program.
Future Outlook
Wegmans is expected to enroll early in January 2026, giving him a chance to get acclimated to college-level strength and conditioning ahead of spring ball. With Tech returning several upperclassmen on the offensive line but facing depth concerns heading into 2026, Wegmans could compete for a backup role as a freshman and potentially start by his sophomore year.
The Hokies are also trending upward with several other linemen, and Wegmans’ commitment could be a domino that influences others to follow. His high-profile decision to choose Virginia Tech over programs like Michigan will no doubt send a message across the ACC and beyond: the Hokies are building something—and players are taking notice.
As Wegmans put it: “I’m ready to work. Let’s get to it. Go Hokies!”
