Israel Hairston is a high-IQ, multi-sport Hokie with sleeper upside
Hairston arrived at Virginia Tech as a preferred walk-on and, in the 2025 season, did not see game action, so the on-field résumé is still a blank canvas. What makes him interesting is the profile: a 5-9, 180-pound athlete with quarterback, defensive back, and multi-sport experience, plus decorated leadership and academic chops from William Byrd. That usually translates to competitiveness, toughness, and versatility more than instant box-score fireworks. He looks like a developmental fit for a program that values detail, effort, and football IQ.
