James Franklin in talks with Virginia Tech for head coaching job: report

James Franklin may soon find a new home.

ESPN reported Saturday morning that Franklin was “engaged in the early stages of discussions” to become Virginia Tech’s next head coach.

According to the report, Franklin will learn his fate in the coming days, but there is mutual interest.

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Franklin was fired from Penn State after the Nittany Lions suffered an upset loss to the Northwestern Wildcats. It was the school’s third consecutive loss and second consecutive shocking defeat. The team lost to the UCLA Bruins on the road the previous week.

Franklin took over as Penn State’s head coach before the 2014 season after spending three years with the team. Vanderbilt Commodoresleading the school to consecutive nine-win seasons.

Penn State head coach James Franklin reacts during the second quarter of an NCAA college football game against Northwestern, Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025, in State College, Pennsylvania. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)

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He was in his 12th season at Penn State. He led the Nittany Lions to the College Football Playoff semifinals last season, finishing 13-3.

Franklin had a 104-45 record as the school’s head coach, but he went 4-21 against top 10 teams.

Philip Montgomery is currently the interim head coach of the Hokies after firing Brent Pry following an 0-3 start.

Penn State Nittany Lions head coach James Franklin against the Boise State Broncos in the Fiesta Bowl at State Farm Stadium. (Mark J. Rebilas/Imagn Images)

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Penn State has since fallen out of the rankings and has lost each of its last three games since Franklin’s firing. They almost pulled off the upset against No. 2 Indiana, but the Hoosiers scored a touchdown in the final minute.