Virginia Tech Locks in Kyron Drones and William “Pop” Watson III for 2025 Season
Virginia Tech fans, rejoice! The Hokies have secured their quarterback duo for the 2025 season, and it’s a big win for the program. On Friday, the team announced that starting quarterback Kyron Drones and reserve William “Pop” Watson III will both be returning next year. This news comes as a sigh of relief for Hokies faithful, especially with the transfer portal looming as a tempting option for many players across the nation.
Let’s start with Kyron Drones, the redshirt junior from Houston who has been a cornerstone for Virginia Tech this season. Despite missing three games due to a foot injury, Drones started all nine games he played and put up some solid numbers. He led the team with 1,562 passing yards and 10 touchdowns, though he also threw six interceptions. On the ground, Drones was just as impactful, finishing second on the team in rushing yards (336), rushing touchdowns (6), and carries (98). Talk about a dual-threat quarterback!
It’s no exaggeration to say that Drones would have been one of the most sought-after quarterbacks in the transfer portal had he decided to test the waters. But instead, he’s staying put in Blacksburg, and that’s a huge win for the Hokies. His decision to return signals stability and leadership for a team that’s looking to bounce back from a rollercoaster 6-6 regular season.
Backing up Drones is William “Pop” Watson III, a redshirt freshman from Massachusetts who showed flashes of brilliance this season. Watson made his first career start in the Commonwealth Cup rivalry game against Virginia, and boy, did he deliver. With 254 passing yards and a touchdown, Watson helped the Hokies secure bowl eligibility and extend their win streak in the rivalry. Over the course of the season, he appeared in four games, finishing with 400 passing yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Not bad for a young quarterback still finding his footing.
Watson’s performance against Virginia was particularly impressive given the stakes. With the Hokies’ bowl hopes on the line, he stepped up and delivered when it mattered most. That kind of poise under pressure bodes well for his future, and having him back alongside Drones gives Virginia Tech a strong one-two punch at quarterback heading into 2025.
Key Takeaways from the Hokies’ QB Situation
- Kyron Drones: Led the team in passing yards (1,562) and passing touchdowns (10) despite missing three games. Also contributed significantly in the run game with 336 rushing yards and six rushing touchdowns.
- William “Pop” Watson III: Stepped up in a big way during his first career start, throwing for 254 yards and a touchdown against Virginia. Finished the season with 400 passing yards, one touchdown, and one interception.
- Stability for 2025: With both quarterbacks returning, Virginia Tech has a solid foundation to build on as they look to improve on their 6-6 record.
It’s worth noting that Watson played behind both Drones and Collin Schlee this season. Schlee started three games but was sidelined by an injury during a loss to Duke. With Schlee’s status uncertain, the return of Drones and Watson becomes even more critical for the Hokies’ future.
Coaching Changes and Bowl Game on the Horizon
The announcement of Drones and Watson’s return comes on the heels of some significant coaching staff changes for Virginia Tech. The Hokies recently made adjustments to their offensive line coaching staff, a move that many fans hope will address one of the team’s biggest weaknesses. Virginia Tech tied for 91st nationally in most sacks allowed, a stat that undoubtedly contributed to their up-and-down season.
Looking ahead, the Hokies have one more game to play this season. They’ll face Minnesota on Jan. 3 in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl, a matchup that gives them a chance to finish the year on a high note. While a 6-6 record isn’t what fans were hoping for, a bowl win could provide some much-needed momentum heading into 2025.
For now, though, the focus is on the future, and the return of Drones and Watson is a big step in the right direction. With their quarterback room locked in and some fresh faces on the coaching staff, the Hokies have plenty to be optimistic about as they prepare for next season. The question now is whether they can turn that potential into results on the field. Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure: Virginia Tech fans will be watching closely.
Originally Written by: Andrea Adelson
