The Virginia Tech Hokies had a big recruiting weekend, with the NCAA transfer portal opening on Friday. As expected, commitments followed. First, former Penn State DL Daniel Jennings announced he was transferring to Virginia Tech.
Not long afterward, former Penn State tight end Matt Henderson revealed he was following Jennings to Blacksburg. Like Jennings, it’s a homecoming for Henderson, who is a native of Powhatan, Virginia. Jennings is from Princeton, West Virginia, about an hour away from Blacksburg.
The 6-foot-5, 246-pound Henderson played basketball and football in high school, where he was a standout in both sports. After enrolling at Penn State, Henderson was mentored by Ty Howle, Virginia Tech’s new offensive coordinator and tight ends coach. Henderson redshirted in 2025, so he has four years of eligibility remaining with the Hokies.
Advertisement
Henderson was a late riser in the recruiting world. However, once he worked out for Howle and James Franklin, it was over. Henderson began picking up offers, but committed to the Nittany Lions as a junior. Henderson’s addition, with more tight ends potentially on the way, makes it clear that the position will not be ignored in 2026 like it was last season.
Henderson is a big get for Virginia Tech. Not only are the Hokies bringing a talented prospect back home, but Henderson’s best football is ahead of him. He should be an immediate contributor next season.
Welcome home, Matt.
