Recruitment Is Narrowed by Joey O’Brien, Including Tennessee Football

Joey O’Brien, a 2026 four-star athlete from La Salle College High School in Glenside, Pennsylvania, has emerged as one of the most sought-after recruits in the nation. Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 180 pounds, O’Brien’s versatility on the field has garnered attention from numerous top-tier college football programs.

Early Life and High School Career

O’Brien’s athletic prowess became evident during his junior year at La Salle College High School. Defensively, he recorded 36 tackles, 13 pass breakups, and an interception. Offensively, he showcased his skills with 68 receptions for 1,029 yards and 12 touchdowns. His performance earned him recognition as the top prospect in Pennsylvania for the 2026 class.

Recruitment Journey

O’Brien’s recruitment journey has been marked by a series of significant milestones:

• Initial Offers: By late 2024, O’Brien had amassed scholarship offers from prestigious programs, including Notre Dame, Penn State, Georgia, Ohio State, Alabama, Michigan, Oregon, and Tennessee, among others.
• Notre Dame Connection: Notre Dame was among the earliest to offer O’Brien, and their consistent efforts have kept them in strong contention. O’Brien’s connection with the coaching staff and his positive visits to South Bend have reinforced this bond.
• Tennessee Vols Interest: O’Brien’s relationship with Tennessee deepened following his visit to Knoxville in March 2025. He praised the coaching staff’s authenticity and the team’s competitive environment. An official visit was scheduled for June 13, 2025.
• Penn State Pursuit: Given O’Brien’s Pennsylvania roots, Penn State has been a significant player in his recruitment. He has expressed appreciation for their consistent communication and the priority they place on his potential commitment.

Coaching Staff and Program Culture

A recurring theme in O’Brien’s assessments of potential programs is the quality of coaching and the culture within the team:

• Tennessee Volunteers: O’Brien highlighted the genuine relationships with coaches like Coach Nez, Coach Heupel, and Coach Banks. He appreciated the “family-like” atmosphere and the team’s competitive spirit.
• Notre Dame Fighting Irish: The consistent communication and genuine interest from Notre Dame’s coaching staff have left a positive impression on O’Brien. He values their approach and the relationships he has built with the staff.
• Penn State Nittany Lions: O’Brien has acknowledged the efforts of Penn State’s coaching staff, particularly Coach James Franklin, in making him feel like a priority. He values their consistent messaging and the emphasis they place on his potential role within the team.

Impact on Tennessee Football

The recruitment of a talent like O’Brien holds significant implications for Tennessee Football:

• Defensive Versatility: O’Brien’s ability to play multiple positions in the secondary aligns with Tennessee’s defensive needs. His adaptability could provide strategic flexibility for the Vols.
• National Recruitment Appeal: Securing a commitment from O’Brien would enhance Tennessee’s national recruiting profile, showcasing their ability to attract top talent from outside the Southeastern Conference’s traditional footprint.
• Program Momentum: Landing a high-profile recruit like O’Brien could generate positive momentum for the Vols, influencing future recruiting efforts and team performance.