Versatile Defensive Back Joshua Clarke Jr. Commits to Virginia Tech

Virginia Tech is known far and wide for their fiery, tenacious defensive backs that have occupied the NFL for years. Joshua Clarke adds a lightning quick first step and elite instincts to the historic Hokies DB room. Clarke, a 6’1” 170lb cornerback, is a very technically sound defender that can capitalize off any small miscues the offense may have. He is ranked as the 11th best player in Virginia by ESPN.

Clarke started getting college interest in the spring before his junior year from Akron, Kent State, and Toledo. Once he started to camp at other schools during the summer to show his talent, he landed major offers from Iowa State, Wisconsin, Virginia Tech, Michigan State, West Virginia, and others.

Clarke was a frequent visitor to Blacksburg, and he gained familiarity with Defensive Back coach Derek Jones that led to his commitment. He visited for a home game, winter workouts, and a spring practice. He announced his pledge to the Hokies shortly after the spring practice.

Joshua Clarke helped the Flint Hill Huskies (Oakton, VA) bounce back from an 0-9 finish in 2022 to a 5-4 record in his junior season. He was making electric plays on both sides of the ball as a receiver and a cornerback. The Huskies head coach, Kirk Peterson, is a defensive guy himself. He played linebacker for crosstown rival Yorktown High before he started his 30 years of coaching in Loudoun County.

Clarke has nearly mastered the art of being a cornerback. He is willing to be physical, but he has great timing to avoid costly penalties. Additionally, with his experience as a receiver, he can undercut routes and shadow the receiver. While he has a lot of talent, you can tell through his film how much attention to detail he pays. His footwork sets him up in prime position when the ball arrives.

With the skill Clarke already possesses, it’s fair to assume that his transition to the next level will be smooth. He is a complete player that excels when he is left on an island. The Dulles District that Flint Hill competes in is littered with heavily recruited players, and that only improves Clarke’s level of play. It’s unknown how Clarke will look when arrives in Blacksburg, but he sets himself up well with his elite footwork and ball skills. He has a chance to slot into the line up quickly and gain valuable game experience in his freshman year.