Virginia Tech Hokies’ offensive coordinator and wide receiver coach Philip Montgomery has officially turned down a lucrative $3 million offer from the University of Florida. According to multiple insider sources, the Gators were aggressively pursuing Montgomery to fill their vacant offensive coordinator role, offering him a multi-year deal that would have made him one of the highest-paid assistant coaches in the nation. However, Montgomery has reportedly chosen loyalty over luxury, opting to remain in Blacksburg and continue the work he has started with the Hokies.
Montgomery’s decision has sent ripples across both the ACC and SEC, as many had expected him to make the move, given the financial scale of the offer. For Florida, the rejection is a significant blow. The Gators had identified Montgomery as their top target to revitalize their sputtering offense after a disappointing 2024 season. His reputation as a quarterback guru and innovative play-caller made him a prime candidate to take the reins in Gainesville. Yet, in a twist no one saw coming, Montgomery declined the offer after reportedly spending several days in reflection and consulting with close family and colleagues.
One of the major factors behind Montgomery’s decision appears to be his commitment to building something sustainable at Virginia Tech. Sources within the Hokies program say he’s developed a deep bond with head coach Brent Pry and believes the team is on the verge of a breakthrough. Since joining the Hokies in 2023, Montgomery has revamped the offensive strategy, turning the unit into one of the most improved in the ACC. His mentorship of breakout wide receiver Jaheim Bradshaw and sophomore quarterback Dylan Mercer has shown tangible results, and the duo is expected to be among the conference’s best this coming season.
Montgomery’s choice also reflects his appreciation for Virginia Tech’s culture and fanbase. Known for its passionate supporters and strong football tradition, Blacksburg offers a unique environment that money alone can’t replicate. In a statement released through the university, Montgomery said, “While I’m honored by the interest from other programs, especially one as prestigious as Florida, my heart is with the Hokies. We’ve got unfinished business here.” That sense of loyalty has only boosted his standing among Virginia Tech fans, many of whom flooded social media with messages of support and admiration.
Meanwhile, the Florida Gators now face the daunting task of restarting their search for a new offensive coordinator just weeks before fall camp begins. Several names, including former Alabama assistant Jeff Lebby and rising star play-caller Brennan Marion, are now expected to be under consideration. But it’s clear that Montgomery was their top choice. His rejection not only delays Florida’s preparations but also raises questions about the internal situation in Gainesville that might have turned him off, despite the massive salary.
One of the more intriguing subplots to this story is the reaction from players, especially at Virginia Tech. Star wideout Jaheim Bradshaw told reporters, “Coach Monty staying means everything to us. He believes in us and we believe in him. It’s rare to find that kind of trust in this game.” That kind of player-coach connection is invaluable in college football, and it’s a major reason Montgomery felt compelled to stay. With most of his offensive starters returning and a highly-touted freshman class joining the program, Virginia Tech is quietly emerging as a dark horse in the ACC.
As the dust settles, one thing is clear: Philip Montgomery’s decision to turn down Florida’s $3 million offer is a massive win for Virginia Tech and a rare display of principle in a college football environment often driven by dollar signs. While many coaches would have jumped ship for the payday, Montgomery’s loyalty may well be the cornerstone of something truly special in Blacksburg. And come this fall, fans of the Hokies will be watching their offense take the field with not just talent—but purpose.
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