Former Cocoa Tigers Defensive Lineman Javion Hilson Transfers to Virginia Tech

Hilson initially signed with the University of Missouri and spent one season with the Tigers before announcing that he had entered the transfer portal.

The decision opened the door for a fresh start, and Virginia Tech ultimately emerged as the next stop for one of the nation’s most highly regarded edge rushers.

Considered a premier prospect in the Class of 2025, Hilson carved out a reputation as an explosive, relentless pass rusher. A Rivals analyst described him as “perhaps the most consistent edge-rushing talent in the class,” noting his rapid development from his sophomore year through his senior season.

At Cocoa, Hilson anchored a dominant Tigers defense, finishing one season with 72 total tackles, 25 tackles for loss, 15 sacks and 59 quarterback hurries across 12 games. His presence routinely forced opposing offenses to adjust blocking schemes and accounted for why so many college programs — including Florida, Florida State, Georgia, Miami, Ohio State, Penn State and Tennessee — pursued him aggressively before he chose Missouri.

His national profile continued to rise when he earned Defensive Line MVP honors at a Rivals Camp in Miami. Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 235 pounds, Hilson blends length, burst and power — tools that project well at the next level.

Cocoa head coach Ryan Schneider once summed up what separates Hilson from the pack: “He’s blessed to have God-given ability. The thing that makes him great is his work ethic and drive to be the best player he can be.”

At Virginia Tech, Hilson is expected to compete early and add immediate depth to the Hokies’ front seven.

If his trajectory continues, the former Tigers star could become a key piece for a program looking to reassert itself on the national stage after the hiring of former Penn State Head Coach James Franklin.