Torrian Gray, Virginia Tech's secondary coach, got an unexpected text message Monday. It was from junior cornerback Victor "Macho" Harris, who had declared for the NFL draft over the weekend.

Four words flashed on Gray's cell phone: Coach, I'm coming back.

"I called him and was like, 'Really? Seriously?' " Gray said. Harris told him he had changed his mind, had spoken with head coach Frank Beamer and would enroll in this semester's classes, which began Monday. "He just felt like that, instead of trying to squeeze into whatever round it may be, it was in his best interest to come back. And I think he's right in that assessment."

Underclassmen who declare for the draft have until Friday to withdraw their names and return to school - assuming they haven't hired an agent.

Harris, a first-team All-ACC selection this season after intercepting five passes and breaking up 12 more, had been told by the NFL's advisory committee that he projected as a third-round pick. Gray had told him weeks ago that with another year in college, his stock - and earning power - could skyrocket.

"I texted him after he said he was leaving and told him if he wasn't sure, he should call and talk to me," Gray said. "He's making the right decision on all fronts. It was awesome to get that text."

It's good news for the Hokies' defense, which is losing six senior starters and All-American corner Brandon Flowers, also a junior who declared for the draft. Had Harris left, Tech would've lost both starting corners and its starting free safety.

"At least now we've got a known quantity there, and three other guys who can fill in the parts," Gray said. "It definitely makes things easier. We're excited."