The Virginia Tech Hokies are making serious moves on the recruiting trail, and the momentum shows no signs of slowing down. Just over a week after the team’s spring game, head coach James Franklin and his staff landed another key piece for the future: three-star running back Stanley Smart, who announced his commitment to the 2027 class on Wednesday.

Smart, a compact and powerful 5-foot-10, 200-pound prospect from Savannah, Georgia, plays his high school ball at Benedictine Military School. He becomes the eighth player to join Virginia Tech’s 2027 recruiting class and the second running back to commit, following Kelvin Morrison from Hermitage, Pennsylvania, who pledged just last week.

The young back made his decision official with a social media post that read: "1000% COMMITTED!! THIS IS HOME! #ThisIsHome #LGH #Sliderz." It’s clear Smart feels right at home in Blacksburg, and his commitment adds depth to a position group that’s already generating buzz.

Smart chose the Hokies over a crowded list of offers from major programs, including Auburn, Texas Tech, Georgia Tech, Illinois, Kansas State, Duke, and several others. A key factor in his decision? His longstanding relationship with Virginia Tech’s new running backs coach, Norval McKenzie. McKenzie first extended an offer to Smart over a year ago while he was still coaching at Georgia Tech, and that early connection paid off in a big way for the Hokies.

Looking ahead, Virginia Tech’s backfield in 2026 will be led by Marcellous Hawkins and Jeffrey Overton Jr. Hawkins brings senior experience to the table, while Overton, a redshirt freshman, offers youthful energy and potential. With Smart now in the fold, the future of Hokies football looks brighter than ever—and fans have plenty of reasons to be excited about what’s coming next.