The past several classes, Virginia Tech has really loaded up on the defensive linemen and linebackers. The current projections from the 2007 and 2008 classes stand as follows: 9 defensive linemen, 8 linebackers, 5 defensive backs. One of the more interesting dynamics to follow will be the ultimate position destinations for some of these kids, as more than a few could end up playing another position than the original projection. This could influence the staff's thinking in terms of needs for this class, although defensive back appears to be the biggest overall need for 2009 recruiting.
As we did with the offense, let's take a look at the defensive needs by position.