Finding a veteran defensive back who could at least fill the nickel role well was a priority for Virginia Tech following Early Signing Day. Today, the Hokies filled their need landing a commitment from Georgia Southern CB Derrick Canteen as he announced on Twitter.
Canteen joins a strong transfer class for the Hokies that also includes Baylor QB Kyron Drones, Old Dominion WR Ali Jennings, Norfolk State WR Da'Quan Felton, and MTSU WR Jaylin Lane. He has three years of eligibility remaining after he redshirted in 2019, started in the free 2020 season, took a medical redshirt in 2021, and was a starter this past season.
Canteen had an impressive career at Georgia Southern breaking on the season in a huge way in 2020 with 48 tackles including 0.5 for loss plus 6 interceptions, 10 pass breakups, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery, and 1 defensive touchdown in 13 games on his way to earning Freshman All-American and First Team All-Sun Belt honors. After injuries derailed his 2021, Canteen had another strong season in 2022 with 64 tackles including 2 for loss with 1 sack plus 1 interception and 12 pass breakups earning All-Sun Belt Third Team honors.
Canteen is a great addition for the Hokies who should fit in quite well as the nickel next season while also being a talented player who can push Dorian Strong and Mansoor Delane. He also projects as a future starter for the Hokies especially if Strong were to have a good 2023 season and then head to the NFL.
With Canteen on board, Tech should be done for this cycle in terms of defensive backs following his addition. Tech has shown some interest in DII All-American CB Shon Stephens but Canteen's addition likely rules out Stephens at this point.
