Kyron Drones sends clear message about Shedeur Sanders' future (Exclusive)

Kyron Drones enters the 2025 season as one of the most intriguing quarterbacks in college football. In what many expect could be a breakout year for the Houston, Texas native.

Drones has emerged as a dark horse Heisman contender thanks to his dual-threat abilities and leadership on the field. For Virginia Tech, his health and consistency are critical. Not only for making a third consecutive bowl game, but also for ensuring job security for the coaching staff in Blacksburg.

At the ACC Kickoff in Charlotte on Thursday, Drones made it clear that his focus is squarely on leading Virginia Tech into contention.

“We want to put ourselves in a position to compete,” Drones said about the Hokies’ potential for the 2025 campaign. His offseason preparation has been extensive.

Drones has spent the past two offseasons training alongside his cousin, Cam Ward, now the NFL’s top overall draft pick in Tennessee, and former Colorado star Shedeur Sanders, who recently landed with the Cleveland Browns at No. 144 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft. Their workouts have been intense and competitive.

Last Fourth of July weekend, the trio even balanced football with fun, hitting the field before heading out to watch fireworks from a yacht in Miami. Ward once called out Sanders for “BS’ing” during a hot summer session, proving that even NFL-bound talent isn’t immune to tough love.

While Sanders has attracted plenty of media attention for the NFL Draft slide, Drones has defended his character.