Arguably one of Virginia Tech's best returning players this season is cornerback Dorian Strong, who has put his NFL dreams on hold by deciding to return to the Hokies next season.
Grant Hughes of 247Sports listed Strong as one of the top three defensive players in the ACC heading into the 2024 season. Other top players listed alongside Strong were Louisville defensive end Ashton Girotto and Miami defensive lineman Reuben Bayne.
“Strong put his NFL ambitions aside and announced his return to Virginia Tech during the offseason. Last season, Strong was rated as one of the best cover cornerbacks in college football, catching just nine of 33 passes for 83 yards and one touchdown. He also showed off his ball-stealing ability with three interceptions and seven breakups. An injury limited him to just four games in 2022, but he bounced back in 2023. He'll take full advantage of the offseason and look to have an even bigger season in 2024.”
– Grant Hughes
Strong will look to continue his successful run with the Hokies in 2023 and return for his junior season. Strong is currently one of the best cover cornerbacks in college football, having defended 11 passes, recorded three interceptions, allowed only nine receptions on 33 targets and recorded 25 total tackles last season.
Strong isn't the only defensive player to watch this season. Antwaun Powell-Ryland and Duke transfer Aeneas Peebles were also named top 100 players in college football. Virginia Tech's defense should be a threat this season, along with a talented offensive line led by QB Kyron Draughns and RB Beischl-Teuten, and a returning group of wide receivers.
