Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel is still finalizing his 2025 roster, but he and his staff have already made significant strides in building the 2026 recruiting class. So far, the Volunteers have secured seven verbal commitments.
One player helping to recruit for the program is 5-star quarterback Faizon Brandon, which raises the question—could some big news be on the horizon? Several highly regarded prospects have expressed strong interest in Tennessee. Here, we highlight three key recruits who could eventually make their way to Knoxville.
4-star Wide Receiver Joel Wyatt
Joel Wyatt recently made an unofficial visit to meet with the Tennessee coaching staff, and by all accounts, the visit went exceptionally well. Shortly after, On3’s Steve Wiltfong predicted that the Vols would land the speedy receiver. If that happens, it would be a major boost for the offense.
Ranked as a 4-star prospect and the No. 7 wide receiver in the country by 247Sports, Wyatt also sits at No. 13 among WRs in the 247Sports Composite rankings and is the No. 3 overall player in Tennessee. Keeping top in-state talent home has been a priority for Heupel, and securing Wyatt’s commitment would be a big win in that regard.
4-star Linebacker Rodney Colton Jr.
Like Wyatt, linebacker Rodney Colton Jr. also recently visited Knoxville. Previously committed to South Carolina, Colton decommitted and visited Tennessee just days later.
A 4-star prospect and the No. 11 cornerback in the nation per the 247Sports Composite, Colton is a highly sought-after recruit. However, landing him won’t be easy, as Auburn, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, LSU, and others are heavily recruiting him as well.
5-star Wide Receiver Tristen Keys
Tennessee fans who closely follow recruiting likely expected to see Tristen Keys on this list. The 5-star wide receiver has the potential to be a college football star, ranking as the No. 2 WR in the country and the top player in Mississippi.
Keys has been vocal about his high interest in Tennessee, and during the season, 247Sports’ Tom Loy predicted the Vols as his likely landing spot. However, Alabama and Texas A&M remain strong contenders, so Tennessee will need to continue making a strong push.
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