Tennessee recruiting heats up for 2026, with quarterback Faizon Brandon leading the class. Analysts weigh in: BUY or SELL Vols landing a Top 10 class?
As the 2026 recruiting cycle gains momentum, the Tennessee Volunteers have positioned themselves as serious contenders for a Top 10 national class. Central to this effort is the commitment of five-star quarterback Faizon Brandon, the No. 1 overall prospect in the class. His decision to join Tennessee marks a significant milestone for head coach Josh Heupel and his staff. But the question remains: can the Vols maintain this momentum and secure a Top 10 class? Let’s delve into the factors that support and challenge this possibility.
BUY: Faizon Brandon’s Commitment as a Cornerstone
Faizon Brandon’s commitment to Tennessee is a game-changer. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 197 pounds, Brandon is a dual-threat quarterback with a strong arm and impressive mobility. During his junior season at Grimsley High School in Greensboro, North Carolina, he threw for 2,814 yards and 35 touchdowns, leading his team to a state title and earning accolades such as North Carolina’s Gatorade Football Player of the Year and Mr. Football .
His decision to choose Tennessee over programs like Alabama, LSU, and NC State underscores the Vols’ growing appeal. Brandon cited the strong relationships with the coaching staff and the program’s commitment to player development as key factors in his choice .
With Brandon as the centerpiece, Tennessee has a solid foundation to build upon. His presence is likely to attract other top-tier recruits, especially skill position players eager to play alongside a top-ranked quarterback.
SELL: Early Class Size and National Ranking Concerns
While Brandon’s commitment is a significant boost, Tennessee’s overall recruiting class is still in its infancy. As of early 2025, the Vols have secured eight commitments, including one five-star, two four-stars, and five three-stars. This places them at No. 9 nationally and No. 5 in the SEC, according to On3 Sports .
The limited number of commitments means there’s still ample room for growth. However, the competition remains fierce. Programs like Ohio State, Texas, and LSU are also vying for top talent, and Tennessee will need to secure several high-profile commitments in the coming months to maintain their Top 10 standing.
BUY: Coaching Staff’s Proven Track Record
The Tennessee coaching staff, led by Josh Heupel and offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach Joey Halzle, has a proven track record of developing quarterbacks. Halzle’s experience coaching NFL talents like Hendon Hooker and Joe Milton adds credibility to the program’s ability to nurture quarterback talent .
This reputation is invaluable in recruiting, especially for quarterbacks like Brandon who are looking for development opportunities that can lead to the next level. The staff’s commitment to player development and their ability to build strong relationships with recruits are significant assets in the recruiting process.
SELL: Potential Challenges in Securing Additional Top Talent
While the coaching staff’s reputation is a strength, Tennessee faces challenges in securing additional top-tier talent. The SEC’s competitive nature means that every program is vying for the best recruits. Tennessee will need to differentiate itself not only through player development but also by offering unique opportunities and building strong relationships with recruits.
Moreover, the Vols will need to address any potential concerns recruits might have about the program’s ability to compete at the highest level. Demonstrating consistent success on the field and in player development will be crucial in attracting and retaining top talent.
