For a lot of the guys, especially redshirt freshman, the path isn't necessarily blocked as much as this is the plan for their development. Take this year and learn how to wrestle the VT way, while going up against some tough competition at opens (guys will see some top 10 talent who are also red-shirting.) Lewis could likely have a starting spot either going up or down a weight if he was hell bent on it. It's just better for him and the other freshmen to redshirt if possible.

For more senior guys, especially Hughes and Blees, I'm sure they don't view their path to starting as permanently blocked. They are training and competing for their next chance to challenge for a starting spot and/or to step into the starting lineup and do well if there is an injury to someone else.