Virginia Tech is on the hunt for a new defensive backs coach, and they've set their sights on a standout candidate: Nick Perry. But here's where it gets intriguing – Perry isn't just any coach; he’s a former national championship-winning safety at Alabama, with a résumé that spans both college and professional football. According to a report by Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports, the Hokies are targeting Perry to fill the safeties coach position, the last remaining on-field role yet to be finalized under head coach James Franklin.
Perry’s background is impressive. Most recently, he served as the secondary coach at Arkansas for the 2025 season, adding to his four seasons in the NFL with the Seattle Seahawks and Atlanta Falcons. And this is the part most people miss – before stepping into those high-profile roles, Perry honed his craft as a graduate assistant and defensive analyst under the legendary Nick Saban at Alabama from 2017 to 2020. This blend of experience at the highest levels of both college and professional football makes him a compelling candidate for Virginia Tech.
The timing is critical. With winter workouts on the horizon and spring practice approaching, Franklin is under pressure to finalize his staff. The defensive staff is largely in place, but the safeties position has remained a moving target as the Hokies evaluate candidates still coaching elsewhere or transitioning from other roles. Here’s where it gets controversial – while Perry’s credentials are undeniable, some might question whether his NFL experience translates seamlessly to the college game, especially at a program like Virginia Tech with its unique culture and expectations.
For beginners, it’s worth noting that the safeties coach role is crucial in any defensive scheme, as it involves developing players who are often the last line of defense against opposing offenses. Perry’s success at both the college and NFL levels suggests he has the tools to excel in this position, but only time will tell how he’ll fit into Franklin’s vision for the Hokies.
As Virginia Tech moves toward a resolution in the coming days, fans and analysts alike are eagerly watching. What do you think? Is Nick Perry the right fit for the Hokies, or should they look elsewhere? Let us know in the comments below, and stay tuned for updates as James Franklin puts the final touches on his inaugural staff in Blacksburg.
For the latest hires and updates on the Virginia Tech coaching staff, check out the James Franklin Virginia Tech Coaching Staff Tracker (https://247sports.com/college/virginia-tech/article/james-franklin-virginia-tech-staff-tracker-264012222/).
