Virginia Tech Hokies' roster sees another departure as redshirt freshman linebacker Tavorian Copeland enters the NCAA Transfer Portal. The news, first reported by VTScoop, comes during the spring transfer window.

Standing at an impressive 6 feet 4 inches and weighing 192 pounds, Copeland redshirted for the 2023 season and did not have the opportunity to showcase his talents on the field. The Appomattox, Virginia native, however, still possesses four years of eligibility.

Copeland is the fifth redshirt freshman from Virginia Tech to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal, joining Offensive Lineman Gabriel Arena, Quarterback Dylan Wittke, Defensive Back Antonio Cotman Jr., and Running Back Tralon Mitchell. This wave of departures has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.

During his high school career at Appomattox High School, Copeland made quite a name for himself. As a four-year varsity letterman, he served as a two-time team captain and led his team to two state championships. Copeland was also recognized as a two-time VHSL All-State player.

The 247Sports recruiting platform rated Copeland as a three-star prospect, while the industry-generated 247Sports Composite ranking system echoed the sentiment. Throughout his recruitment process, Copeland received a total of seven scholarship offers. Notably, both Virginia Tech and the University of Virginia extended Power Five offers to him.

Ranked as the 24th best player in the state according to 247Sports, Copeland initially received an offer from the Cavaliers in January following his junior football season. Two months later, Virginia Tech followed suit and extended an offer to the talented linebacker.

Adding to his accolades, Copeland was honored with the Watkins Award after his senior season. This prestigious award recognizes the top African American high school football player for excelling both on and off the field.

As Copeland enters the NCAA Transfer Portal, the Virginia Tech football program faces the challenge of replenishing its defensive unit. Fans will be closely monitoring the team's recruiting and transfer strategies in the coming months to see how they address this unexpected departure.