Virginia Tech received some unexpected news today as freshman defensive linemen Robert Wooten and Alec Bryant have both entered the transfer portal as first reported by Matt Zenitz of On3 Sports.
It’s all love with Virginia Tech. This is just what’s best for me. pic.twitter.com/CuBcbOxyVl
— Rob (@RobjayyW) July 12, 2021
Two second-year Virginia Tech defensive linemen have entered the transfer portal — Robert Wooten and former four-star recruit Alec Bryant, @On3sports has learned
— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) July 12, 2021
Wooten played in all 11 games last season climbing up the depth chart into a backup DE role at times as a true freshman while Bryant played in one game as well. Both players have their full eligibility remaining, but their decision to enter the transfer portal now, well after July 1st, will prevent them from being eligible for this upcoming season without receiving some sort of waiver.
This news is quite surprising to say the least and damages Virginia Tech's defensive line depth. Wooten in particular is a surprising departure given the fact that he seemed poised to be a backup defensive end this season and was in great position to become a multi-year starter at defensive end in the future.
What is notable in Wooten's statement is that he says that his departure is "because of an issue that was out of their hands (VT coaching staff & program) and mine."
We will have more as this story develops.
