Brent Pry’s Virginia Tech staff got a big recruiting win on Monday. The top Virginia native in the JUCO ranks is coming home to play for the Hokies.

Kemari Copeland, an Iowa Western standout originally from Virginia Beach, announced his commitment to Virginia Tech on Monday via social media.

Copeland played for Iowa Western in 2023, arriving from Army. In 13 games, he recorded 38 total tackles, including 9 TFLs with 4.5 sacks. He also had 1 fumble recovery and 1 pass breakup helping the Reivers repeat as NJCAA national champions.

Iowa Western’s roster lists Copeland as measuring 6-3, 285 pounds. On the 247Sports Composite JUCO rankings, Copeland is rated 3-stars, the No. 1 player originally from Virginia, No. 5 defensive lineman and No. 12 prospect overall.

Copeland picked up scholarship offers from 43 programs. In November, he named a top 8 of Virginia Tech, Arizona State, Arkansas, Auburn, Kansas, NC State, UCF and Tennessee.

Hokie fans can check out Copeland’s highlights, below, via Hudl: