Virginia Tech football: Baltimore S Elijah Butler commits to Hokies

May 9, 2026 - 07:12

The Virginia Tech Hokies have secured a commitment from Elijah Butler, a safety out of St. Frances Academy in Baltimore. Butler announced his decision on Tuesday, choosing the Hokies over notable offers from Florida and Auburn.

Butler is a three-star prospect who brings physicality and range to the secondary. Standing at 6-foot-2 and 190 pounds, he has the frame to play either safety or nickel at the college level. His tape shows a player who reads the quarterback well and is not afraid to come downhill in run support.

The recruitment came down to Virginia Tech, Florida, and Auburn, with the Hokies winning out after a strong push from defensive coordinator Chris Marve and safeties coach Pierson Prioleau. Butler took an official visit to Blacksburg in June and cited the coaching staff's vision and the program's defensive tradition as key factors.

He is the latest addition to a 2025 class that is shaping up well for head coach Brent Pry. With Butler in the fold, Virginia Tech continues to build a pipeline to St. Frances, a program known for producing Power Four talent. The Hokies now have 18 commits in the class, with Butler expected to sign during the early signing period in December.