When starting quarterback Kyron Drones suffered multiple injuries late last season, UCLA transfer Collin Schlee stepped in. However, during a late November matchup at Duke, Schlee also went down, opening the door for young QB Pop Watson. Watson nearly led the Hokies to a comeback in Durham and earned the start in the season’s biggest matchup—Thanksgiving Weekend against in-state rival Virginia in the Commonwealth Clash.
Both teams were 5-6, needing a win to become bowl eligible. For the second year in a row, Virginia Tech defeated the Cavaliers handily, with Watson’s strong performance playing a major role under pressure.
Following that win and a bowl game loss to Minnesota in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl, the Hokies received a boost—both Drones and Watson announced they’d be returning for the 2025 season. That news gave Virginia Tech a promising quarterback duo. With Drones currently sidelined due to a medical procedure, Watson is expected to take a significant number of snaps in the upcoming Spring Game. Despite speculation, Watson made it clear that transferring was never something he seriously considered.
Watson talks about staying at Virginia Tech
Given Drones’ return, Watson could’ve easily explored the transfer portal in search of a starting opportunity elsewhere—especially after showing promise late in the season. As a former Massachusetts Gatorade Player of the Year from Springfield Central High School, Watson likely would’ve drawn serious interest. Still, he stayed loyal.
“Not at all, I never ran away from competition,” Watson said. “Right now, I’m QB2—that’s just how the cards fell. I just come in every day, keep my head down, grind, and help get Kyron back too.”
With Drones’ health still a question, Watson’s presence on the roster becomes even more important. No matter how the quarterback competition shakes out, it’s clear that Watson will be ready—and he’s likely the future starter once Drones moves on.