Hokies Yet to Decide Woodson Playing Status After DUI

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jeremy Lockett | Last updated Aug 27, 2025 11:38 AM ET

Virginia Tech linebacker Caleb Woodson, a junior and team captain, was arrested Saturday on a charge of misdemeanor driving while intoxicated, putting his participation in the Hokies’ season opener against No. 13 South Carolina in Atlanta in question.

Woodson, 21, was jailed and released on a $2,500 unsecured bond and is scheduled to appear in court on Sept. 9. According to online court records, this is his first DWI offense.

Coach Brent Pry addressed the situation at a weekly news conference Tuesday, saying the program is handling the matter with “serious internal consequences” in line with university and athletic department policies. Pry also confirmed that Woodson’s captain status has been removed, though the linebacker will have the opportunity to regain the honor in the future.

“There’s been a lot of discussions over the last few days regarding this matter. It’s a very serious matter,” Pry said. “As far as his play this weekend, that’s yet to be determined. We removed his captain status… with the opportunity to earn it back.”

Some Virginia Tech fans took to social media to voice frustration over Woodson’s continued presence on the team. One longtime Hokies supporter wrote, “The fact that he’s still on the team just tells you all you need to know about Hokie Culture. There’s no place for that. He should be suspended for the opener.”

According to online court records, Woodson’s arrest is listed as a Class 1 misdemeanor. He is scheduled to appear in court on Sept. 9, adding a legal dimension to the controversy surrounding his status with the program.

Caleb Woodson’s On-Field Impact

Woodson has been a key contributor for the Hokies over the past two seasons. Last year, he started 11 of 13 games, recording 72 tackles—including 7.5 for loss—two sacks, and an interception, ranking second on the team in total tackles. During his freshman season, he appeared in all 13 games and started once, tallying 22 tackles.

A native of Haymarket, Virginia, Woodson turned 21 in June and was named co-captain just last week. His arrest comes at a critical time as Virginia Tech opens its season against a top-15 opponent, raising questions about both the team’s leadership and its defensive lineup.

The Hokies will face South Carolina on Sunday, with Woodson’s participation still undecided as the program reviews its internal disciplinary measures.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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