New Mexico Safety Joins Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech bolstered its safety lineup by securing a commitment from New Mexico transfer Christian Ellis, marking the fourth safety addition through the transfer portal this cycle.
Ellis, who earned All-Mountain West Honorable Mention recognition in 2024, led New Mexico with 99 tackles, including 3.5 for loss, five passes defended, and one interception. He also scored on a 41-yard fumble recovery in the season opener against Montana State.
The Jacksonville, Fla., native spent three seasons with New Mexico, recording 161 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, and nine passes defended over 31 games. He showcased his tackling prowess with four double-digit performances, including a career-high 14 tackles at Utah State in October 2024.
Ellis is part of Virginia Tech’s revamped safety unit, joining Isaiah Cash (Sam Houston State), Sherrod Covil Jr. (Clemson), and Tyson Flowers (Rice). Following significant losses, including Jaylen Jones to graduation and two others to the transfer portal, the Hokies brought in a combined 5,725 career snaps, with Ellis adding depth to the group of 11 scholarship safeties for 2025.
Before transferring, Ellis had offers from schools like Kansas, Mississippi State, and Wake Forest during his recruitment as a three-star prospect in 2022. In high school, he was a standout at Edward H. White High, excelling in football and track. His senior season included 50 tackles, three sacks, and over 1,400 rushing yards. He also captured district track titles in the 100-meter dash and 4×100 relay.
Ellis entered the transfer portal on Dec. 11, drawing interest from programs like Arizona, Louisville, Utah State, and Washington. Ultimately, a December visit to Virginia Tech sealed his decision.
As the Hokies’ 16th commitment and ninth defensive addition of this portal cycle, Ellis enhances Virginia Tech’s secondary alongside safeties and cornerbacks like Isaiah Brown-Murray (East Carolina) and Joseph Reddish (Wingate).
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