Virginia Tech hires former assistant James Johnson

Virginia Tech has decided to bring back James Johnson.

Johnson, an assistant coach on Seth Greenberg's staff for the past five years, will replace Greenberg as the Hokies head coach, sources told CBSSports.com.

Spartanburg, S.C.-based WSPA-TV was the first to report Johnson was the choice.

Johnson had decided, earlier in the month, to leave for an assistant spot at Clemson with Brad Brownell.

Johnson is extremely well-liked and will also help ensure that the current players and signed recruits stay with the program.

Johnson was also an assistant for two years at George Mason under Jim Larranaga and was an assistant at Penn State and College of Charleston.

He is a Virginia native.