Justin Hopkins, a 2026 Tennessee football target, has four finalists, including the Vols and USC.

As college football recruiting heats up, the class of 2026 is already making waves with some of the nation’s top high school prospects. Among the highly sought-after players is Justin Hopkins, a standout recruit who has quickly gained attention for his skills, potential, and versatile abilities. As his recruitment process progresses, Hopkins has narrowed down his choices to four finalists, and among them are two of the most prominent programs in the country: the Tennessee Volunteers and the USC Trojans. With numerous offers from other major programs also on the table, the recruitment of Justin Hopkins has become one of the most closely watched storylines in college football recruiting.

At 6-foot-3 and weighing around 215 pounds, Hopkins has the physical traits that make him an ideal prospect for both offense and defense. His ability to play multiple positions, combined with his speed and athleticism, has made him an invaluable asset to his high school team and an enticing recruit for colleges across the country. Whether it’s as a wide receiver, safety, or even linebacker, Hopkins’ skill set is what makes him so versatile and coveted.

A Look at Justin Hopkins’ Recruiting Journey

Justin Hopkins’ journey toward becoming one of the most highly recruited players in the 2026 class began in his sophomore year of high school. As a dynamic player who could contribute to both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball, he quickly attracted the attention of college coaches. Initially starting his high school career with the role of a receiver, Hopkins impressed with his natural ability to catch passes, run routes, and make plays in space. However, as his career progressed, he demonstrated his versatility by contributing on defense as well, and this versatility helped elevate his status in the eyes of college scouts.

The early part of Hopkins’ recruitment saw interest from a wide range of programs, each trying to identify how they could best use his skills on the field. A standout at multiple camps and combines, Hopkins showcased the combination of size, agility, and physicality that college coaches covet in a multi-purpose athlete. As he continued to perform at a high level, offers from elite programs started pouring in, and it was clear that Hopkins was no longer just a rising star in his region — he was becoming a nationally recognized talent.

Some of the early offers came from major programs across the country, with schools from the SEC, Big Ten, Pac-12, and more showing heavy interest. As a result, Hopkins had no shortage of suitors. However, with each passing month, it became apparent that two programs were emerging as clear favorites: Tennessee and USC. Both schools have a rich history of success and offer unique opportunities for players, and these programs have been heavily involved in recruiting Hopkins since the start of his high school career.

The Tennessee Vols: A Rising Power with a Focus on Development

Tennessee football has undergone significant improvements in recent years, and much of that success can be attributed to head coach Josh Heupel and his staff. Since taking over in 2021, Heupel has quickly turned the Vols into one of the most potent offenses in the country. The combination of up-tempo play and an aggressive passing attack has been a hallmark of Tennessee’s resurgence. However, the Vols’ success on the field is matched by their ability to recruit top-tier talent, and they have emerged as one of the top contenders for Hopkins’ services.

Tennessee’s pitch to Hopkins has centered around the program’s continued rise under Heupel, who has revitalized a storied program. As a major SEC power, the Vols are positioned for sustained success, and for Hopkins, the opportunity to join a program with such a high ceiling for success would be appealing. Heupel and his staff have made a concerted effort to recruit Hopkins, and their ability to develop multi-dimensional players, particularly on defense, aligns with what Hopkins brings to the table. Whether as a safety or wide receiver, Tennessee is showing how they can unlock Hopkins’ potential while providing him with the chance to compete for championships.

Another appealing aspect for Hopkins is Tennessee’s reputation for developing NFL-caliber talent. Players like Jalin Hyatt, Hendon Hooker, and others have proven that Tennessee can not only win games but also get players ready for the next level. For someone like Hopkins, who possesses a high level of athleticism and a wide range of skills, the opportunity to play for a program that can maximize his potential and help him get to the NFL is undoubtedly attractive.

Additionally, Tennessee’s passionate fan base and the atmosphere of Neyland Stadium make the Vols’ program particularly enticing. The storied history of Tennessee football, combined with the excitement surrounding the current program, makes it an appealing destination for recruits looking to be part of something special. If Hopkins ultimately chooses Tennessee, he would be joining a program on the rise, one that will likely be in the mix for College Football Playoff contention in the coming years.

The USC Trojans: The Glitz and Glamour of Los Angeles

On the other side of the country, USC has been one of the most successful programs in the history of college football. With a storied tradition of championships and legendary players, the Trojans have long been considered a prime destination for recruits. Under the leadership of head coach Lincoln Riley, USC has quickly returned to national relevance, making the Trojans a strong contender in the Pac-12 and beyond.

USC has established itself as one of the top programs in the nation, and it has made a significant push to land Hopkins as one of their marquee 2026 recruits. Riley’s reputation as an offensive genius and his ability to get the best out of his players would certainly be appealing to someone like Hopkins, who has shown the ability to thrive in both offensive and defensive roles. The opportunity to play for Riley and his high-powered offense, which regularly puts up massive numbers, would certainly be enticing.

Beyond the football field, USC offers a unique environment. The allure of Los Angeles, with its rich culture and opportunities both in and out of football, is hard to ignore. For a player like Hopkins, who may have aspirations beyond football, USC offers exposure and access to the entertainment industry, a dynamic that few other programs can provide.

USC has also proven that it can recruit nationally, bringing in top-tier players from all over the country. The Trojans’ ability to compete at a high level on a consistent basis in the Pac-12, along with their strong national recruiting presence, makes them a prime candidate for Hopkins’ attention.

The Other Finalists: Alabama and Georgia

While Tennessee and USC are widely considered the two leaders in Hopkins’ recruitment, it’s important to note that two other major programs — Alabama and Georgia — round out the list of his final four schools. Both Alabama and Georgia are perennial powerhouses in college football, with national championships and elite recruiting classes year after year.

Alabama, under head coach Nick Saban, has long been one of the most successful programs in college football. Known for its physicality, attention to detail, and ability to develop players into top-tier NFL talent, Alabama is always a top contender for recruits. For Hopkins, the opportunity to play for a program with such a rich tradition of success and NFL talent would be highly appealing.

Georgia, similarly, has emerged as one of the most dominant programs in recent years, with back-to-back national championships in 2021 and 2022. The Bulldogs’ defense, in particular, has been a key factor in their rise to prominence, and the chance to join that side of the ball could be an attractive option for Hopkins, who has shown his versatility as a defender.

What’s Next for Justin Hopkins?

As his recruitment continues to unfold, Justin Hopkins will be weighing his options carefully. With four elite programs vying for his commitment, the decision will likely come down to which program provides the best fit for his skill set, his aspirations, and his long-term goals. Whether it’s Tennessee’s rising program, USC’s high-powered offense, Alabama’s elite pedigree, or Georgia’s recent dominance, Hopkins has the opportunity to choose from among the best.

For now, the focus is on enjoying the recruiting process and making the decision that is right for his future. Regardless of which school he ultimately chooses, one thing is certain: Justin Hopkins has the potential to make an immediate impact at the collegiate level, and his decision will shape the future of whichever program lands him.