Virginia Tech football: 4-star DL James Buchanan commits to Hokies

BLACKSBURG, VA - SEPTEMBER 07: Virginia Tech Hokies defensive lineman Josh Fuga (6) celebrates after making a sack during a college football game between the Marshall Thundering Herd and the Virginia Tech Hokies on September 7, 2024, at Lane Stadium in Blacksburg, VA. (Photo by Lee Coleman/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images The Virginia Tech Hokies have been on a roll recently on the recruiting trail. While the 2026 squad has been busy with spring practice, head coach James Franklin and his staff have hosted numerous recruits.

It’s led to three commitments since March 19 — all out-of-state players and defensive linemen. On Thursday, the Hokies added another one, as four-star defensive lineman James Buchanan became Virginia Tech’s latest commitment. Buchanan, a 6-foot-3.

5, 260-pounder from the McDonogh School in Owings Mills, Maryland, plays on the edge currently, but possesses the type of frame to eventually move inside. Several colleges were recruiting Buchanan as a defensive tackle, but will Tech give him a chance at defensive end. Buchanan weighed in on his position earlier this year.

I'm not an interior lineman https://t. co/ESCNW1Hndm — Joseph "Buc" Buchanan III 4⭐️ (@sackchasin_buc) February 28, 2026 Here’s Buchanan’s commitment announcement: Committed! #GoHokies 🦃 @DaelunDarien7 @SpenceChaos @coachjfranklin pic.