Grimm named all-American

At times throughout his career at Virginia Tech, linebacker Cody Grimm has been accurately described as a walk-on and undersize. But he might be remembered by a different title: all-American.

Grimm was named third-team all-American on Tuesday by the Associated Press; a panel of 14 AP college football poll voters picked the teams. Grimm became only the second former walk-on at Virginia Tech to be named an all-American, joining John Engelberger, who was named second-team all-American by the AP in 1999.

"Coming in here as a walk-on and finishing things off by being named an all-American is a big accomplishment," Grimm said, "and I'm just really happy and honored for the recognition."

The announcement caps a remarkable year for the 5-foot-11 former walk-on from Oakton High School. Once deemed too small to play at the division I-A level, Grimm, a fifth-year senior, has flourished as a starter this season. He led Virginia Tech with 99 tackles and had 3 sacks and 5 pass breakups. He tied the NCAA lead with 7 forced fumbles.

"I'm very proud and happy for Cody," defensive coordinator Bud Foster said. "He has worked extremely hard to get where he is today. He's a dynamic football player, and we're all very, very happy for him."

There are five nationally recognized all-American squads: the AP, Walter Camp, Sporting News, Football Writers Association of America and American Football Coaches Association.