Virginia Tech WR Da'Wain Lofton became the third offensive player from the Hokies to enter the transfer portal as first reported by On3.
Virginia Tech WR Da’Wain Lofton (@DawainL) has entered the NCAA transfer portal, @On3sports has learned. https://t.co/l6HDDPGq0I pic.twitter.com/aOD8pMZjla
— Transfer Portal (@TransferPortal_) December 5, 2023
Among offensive players, Lofton joins starting TE Dae'Quan Wright and third-string RB Bryce Duke in the portal. Starting nickelback Derrick Canteen also announced yesterday that he'll enter the portal.
This isn't a shock as Lofton saw playing time disappear this past year following the arrival of MTSU WR Jaylin Lane to be Tech's starting slot receiver. Additionally, redshirt freshman Xayvion Turner-Bradshaw started to take on a larger backup role while Tech is very high on true freshman Takye Heath who played in only game against Rutgers during which he suffered an injury.
Lofton had plenty of hype when he first arrived on campus in 2021, but ended up having a limited role till late in the season. He claimed a starting role in 2022 and showed flashes on his way to having 22 catches for 254 yards and two touchdowns, but struggled for consistently. He only had six catches for 58 yards in 2023, the lowest totals of his career in a single season, and will look for a starting opportunity for his final year.
As stated above, this isn't a surprising loss for the Hokies and helps bring more balance to a roster that became WR heavy over the past year. With what Tech should have coming back, the Hokies still aren't expected to pursue a WR in the portal.
