Virginia Tech is looking to add one more defensive back via the transfer portal who can come in and be a significant contributor in large part at the nickelback position.
One of their top targets is Georgia Southern CB Derrick Canteen with the Hokies emerging as a clear contender in his recruitment.
Canteen told us that he is "setting up a visit for Friday" to Virginia Tech. It is unclear if Canteen has any other visits currently planned at the moment. Nickels/sam LBs coach Shawn Quinn has been the primary recruiter for the Hokies so far and clearly has made significant progress in leading Tech's pursuit of Canteen.
Following redshirting in 2019, Canteen broke out as a star in 2020 earning Freshman All-American and First Team All-Sun Belt honors after having 48 tackles including 0.5 for loss plus 6 interceptions, 10 pass breakups, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery, and 1 defensive TD in 13 games. After a pectoral injury led to him only playing 2 games in 2021, Canteen bounced back in a big way in 2022 with 64 tackles including 2 for loss with 1 sack plus 1 interception and 12 pass breakups in 11 games on his way to All-Sun Belt Third Team honors.
Canteen should have 3 years of eligibility remaining given the free COVID year in 2020 plus a medical redshirt for 2021.
Canteen would be a strong addition to fill the important nickel role in the Hokies' defense both due to his production and solid size at 5'11'' and 190 pounds. He also could easily slide into a starting lineup in the future especially given the clear NFL potential of Dorian Strong for after 2023 and Mansoor Delane in two years.
Keep an eye on Derrick Canteen as the Hokies look to land one of the most talented cornerbacks available in the transfer portal.
