Virginia Tech has lost a commitment from its 2027 recruiting class, as three-star wide receiver Anthony Roberts has flipped his pledge to ACC rival Wake Forest.
Roberts, a 6-foot-2, 190-pound receiver from Rolesville High School in North Carolina, had been committed to James Franklin and the Hokies since April. However, following a weekend visit to Winston-Salem that included Wake Forest's 77-0 victory over Merrimack, Roberts elected to join the Demon Deacons.
BREAKING: Four-Star WR Anthony “AJ” Roberts has Flipped his Commitment from Virginia Tech to Wake Forest, he tells me for @Rivals The 6’2 195 WR had been Committed to the Hokies since April “Best in NC stay in NC💎” https://t.co/Yy00a5Xls5 https://t.co/vrU4b55caZ
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) November 10, 2026
The North Carolina native is considered a four-star prospect by Rivals, which ranks him as the No. 43 wide receiver nationally and No. 12 overall prospect in North Carolina.
Roberts has put together an impressive senior campaign, recording 26 receptions for 653 yards and 12 touchdowns, according to Rivals. His production averages out to more than 25 yards per reception, highlighting his ability to stretch the field.
In an interview with Rivals recruiting analyst Steve Wiltfong, Roberts credited his relationship with Wake Forest's coaching staff as a major factor in his decision.
Wake Forest wide receivers coach Dyrell Roberts played a particularly significant role in the recruitment. The two developed a relationship during the coach's previous stint at East Carolina, which continued after he joined Jake Dickert's staff in Winston-Salem.
Roberts also expressed a desire to remain in his home state, citing the opportunity to represent North Carolina while playing for a program he believes is moving in the right direction.
For Virginia Tech, the departure represents a setback in its 2027 recruiting efforts. Roberts had been committed for roughly seven months and was expected to provide the Hokies with another talented receiving option.
With the early signing period approaching in December, Franklin and his staff will now look to replace the lost commitment while continuing to build their 2027 class.
