Breaking News: Virginia Tech have dipped into the NFL union talent pool to bring a star of the 15-man code to league once again.

Breaking News: Virginia Tech Dips into NFL Union Talent Pool to Land Star for 15-Man Code Revival

Blacksburg, VA – April 19, 2025

In a bold and unexpected move that’s sending ripples through both college and professional sports circles, Virginia Tech has announced the acquisition of a high-profile NFL player to transition into the 15-man rugby code. The Hokies are the latest to embrace the resurgence of rugby union at the collegiate level, and this signing marks a monumental step in their journey.

Former NFL tight end Derrick “D-Train” Coleman, known for his bruising runs and explosive athleticism with the Baltimore Ravens, has signed a multi-year deal to join Virginia Tech’s expanding rugby program. Coleman, 28, will join the Hokies not as a coach or mentor, but as a full-fledged player—a move not seen since the early 2000s, when a handful of crossover stars briefly flirted with the 15s format.

Virginia Tech Athletic Director, Carla Brantley, unveiled the move at a packed press conference this morning. “This is more than just a recruitment; it’s a statement,” Brantley said. “We believe in the future of rugby union, and Derrick brings a level of professionalism, intensity, and athleticism that will inspire our players and fans alike. This is a new era for Hokies sports.”

The news comes amid a growing trend of American colleges revisiting rugby union as a viable, high-performance sport with international implications. The 15-man code, long overshadowed by its faster-paced cousin rugby sevens and the ever-dominant college football system, is gaining traction thanks to new investments, TV deals, and a push from USA Rugby to develop grassroots talent.

Coleman, a 6’4”, 250-pound powerhouse, brings more than raw physicality to the pitch. Known for his keen game sense, leadership, and unrelenting work ethic, he’s expected to slot into the number eight position—ideal for his hybrid skill set as both a carrier and a defensive anchor. Coleman himself seemed excited about the challenge.

“I’ve always respected rugby. The physicality, the discipline, the brotherhood—it’s everything I love about football and more,” he said. “I want to bring the same fire I had in the NFL to this new chapter. Virginia Tech gave me a chance to be part of something revolutionary, and I’m all in.”

Head Coach Liam O’Shea, a former Irish international, hinted at more big moves ahead. “Derrick is just the beginning. We’re building a program that can compete at the highest level—not just nationally, but globally. The vision is clear: make Blacksburg a rugby powerhouse.”

Fans, meanwhile, are buzzing on social media, with hashtags like #HokiesRugby and #DTrainReturns trending within hours of the announcement. Some are calling it the biggest crossover move in American rugby history.

Whether this sets a precedent for more NFL-to-rugby transitions remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Virginia Tech isn’t just playing games—they’re changing them.