Could the government shutdown be a cause of not announcing anything? You have people struggling due to the shutdown, but then those same people see a state-run university pay someone 8 figures (more of an optics issue). Could Franklin also enjoy free reign on seeing what current players/coaches would be willing to come to VT (or another school)? Once he signs, he loses that freedom of being able to contact them. Honestly, I believe it's Sexton building up how much Franklin can be paid so then he can go and get his other coaches that he works for increased salaries/contracts. If I had a guess, they have gotten to a number that VT isn't comfortable with, but is within let's say a million/year and are trying to hold fast while Franklin stays curious on all of his other possibilities. I would think if he comes to VT, he would probably want to sign in mid-November to truly find out about current VT players/coaches to see who he wants to keep and what he needs to focus on before HS recruiting and possible transfers in January (yes, it is January now but those decisions are probably being made in December).