2026 Justin Hopkins, a football target for Tennessee, has four finalists, including the Vols and USC.
As the recruitment cycle for the class of 2026 heats up, one of the most highly sought-after football prospects is Justin Hopkins, a dynamic and talented player whose recruitment has attracted attention from some of the top programs in the country. Hopkins, a highly skilled athlete with a rare combination of size, speed, and athleticism, has emerged as a major target for multiple college football programs, including the University of Tennessee Volunteers (Vols) and the University of Southern California Trojans (USC). With four schools making the cut for his recruitment, the decision about where Hopkins will play his college football has become one of the most anticipated storylines in the recruiting world.
This article will dive into the recruitment process surrounding Justin Hopkins, examining the factors that have led to the four finalists, what each school has to offer, and how his decision could impact both the programs he is considering and the broader landscape of college football.
Justin Hopkins: A Rising Star
Justin Hopkins is a player who has caught the attention of recruiters and analysts alike, thanks to his impressive performances on the field and his immense potential as a future collegiate star. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing around 220 pounds, Hopkins is an imposing figure who possesses the physical attributes of a prototypical college football player. Whether lining up at linebacker or as an edge rusher, Hopkins uses his size and strength to overwhelm opponents. What truly sets him apart, however, is his agility and speed, which allow him to cover ground quickly and react in real time to plays as they develop. His ability to both stop the run and rush the passer has earned him accolades, and it’s no surprise that top football programs across the nation are eager to bring him on board.
Hopkins plays for a high school team that has consistently been competitive, and his performances have been crucial to their success. Scouts have taken note of his leadership on the field, as well as his commitment to improving his game. His highlights feature not only impressive sacks and tackles but also moments of finesse and athleticism that showcase his versatility. As a result, Hopkins is seen as a top-tier prospect who could make an immediate impact at the next level.
The Recruitment Process
Hopkins’ recruitment journey has been a whirlwind of interest and offers. Over the past year, he has received offers from a long list of powerhouse programs across the country. Initially, he narrowed down his options, and by mid-2025, he had settled on four finalists: the University of Tennessee, the University of Southern California, Georgia, and Ohio State. Each of these schools brings something unique to the table, and their coaching staffs have worked hard to build relationships with Hopkins, making their case for why he should choose their respective programs.
However, as the recruiting process continued to unfold, it became clear that Tennessee and USC were the two schools that had truly distinguished themselves in Hopkins’ recruitment. As a result, the Vols and Trojans have emerged as the two primary contenders for his services, though the decision is far from simple. Hopkins will need to weigh various factors as he decides which program will offer him the best opportunity for success both on and off the field.
Tennessee Vols: A Program on the Rise
The University of Tennessee is one of the schools that has most successfully made its case to Hopkins. Under head coach Josh Heupel, Tennessee has experienced a resurgence in recent years, with the program becoming one of the most exciting and high-powered offenses in college football. Heupel’s up-tempo, pass-heavy style has revitalized Tennessee’s football culture, and the Vols are once again a force to be reckoned with in the SEC.
For Hopkins, Tennessee offers the opportunity to be a part of a program that is on the rise. The Vols have demonstrated a commitment to success, and their recent performances, including major bowl victories and competitive play against top-tier SEC teams, have shown that they are a program capable of competing at the highest level. Tennessee’s defensive schemes, particularly under the leadership of defensive coordinator Tim Banks, have been structured to create opportunities for players like Hopkins, who excel at rushing the passer and stopping the run. Hopkins’ versatility and ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game would make him a key component of Tennessee’s defense moving forward.
Moreover, Tennessee has a rich football tradition and a passionate fan base that supports the team with incredible loyalty. The atmosphere in Knoxville, especially on game days at Neyland Stadium, is electric, and that energy has been a major selling point for the Vols in their pursuit of Hopkins. Tennessee’s facilities have also undergone significant upgrades in recent years, offering state-of-the-art resources for its athletes to develop and excel.
USC Trojans: The Power of the Pac-12
On the other side of the country, USC has been making a strong push to land Hopkins. The Trojans, one of the most storied programs in college football history, offer a different type of appeal. Under head coach Lincoln Riley, USC has been revitalized, with an emphasis on offensive explosiveness, recruiting top-tier talent, and returning the program to its former glory. The addition of Riley in 2022 has completely reshaped USC’s trajectory, turning it into a national contender and a destination for top recruits like Hopkins.
For Hopkins, USC offers the chance to play for a prestigious program in a city known for its football culture. The Trojans have historically been known for their dominant defenses, and under Riley’s leadership, they have been looking to build a more balanced and well-rounded team. While USC’s offense may get the most attention, the defense has shown significant improvements and is being built with future stars in mind. As part of this vision, Hopkins could play a pivotal role as a pass rusher and linebacker, contributing to a defense that is poised to return to the national spotlight.
USC’s location in Los Angeles also provides an attractive lifestyle for many recruits, offering access to the entertainment industry, a diverse cultural environment, and year-round sunshine. For a player like Hopkins, this could be an appealing aspect of his college experience. Additionally, USC’s football facilities are some of the best in the country, with a focus on providing players with everything they need to succeed on the field and in the classroom.
The Other Two Finalists: Georgia and Ohio State
Though Tennessee and USC are the front-runners, it’s worth acknowledging the other two programs that have made Hopkins’ final list: Georgia and Ohio State. Both schools have demonstrated consistent success over the past decade and have strong football traditions that could entice any recruit.
Georgia, under head coach Kirby Smart, has been one of the top programs in college football, consistently competing for national championships. The Bulldogs have a powerhouse defense, which could provide Hopkins with the opportunity to develop his skills under some of the best defensive minds in the game. However, Georgia’s crowded linebacker and edge rusher units could present a more competitive environment for playing time.
Ohio State, under Ryan Day, has also been a top contender in the Big Ten and college football as a whole. The Buckeyes are known for their high-powered offenses, but their defense has seen significant improvements in recent years as well. Ohio State’s tradition of developing elite talent at every position would provide Hopkins with the chance to compete at a high level, but much like Georgia, the competition for playing time in a stacked defense could be a consideration.
What Hopkins Is Looking For
As he nears his decision, Hopkins will be considering several key factors. While each school offers a unique set of opportunities, his choice will likely come down to where he feels he can have the biggest impact on the field, where he’ll be able to develop his game, and where he believes he can win championships.
- Coaching and Development: Hopkins is looking for a program where he can improve his skills and reach his full potential. Both Tennessee and USC offer outstanding coaching staffs that are known for developing players into NFL-caliber talent. The opportunity to work with top-notch defensive coordinators and position coaches will be a significant factor in his decision.
- Playing Time: As a high-profile recruit, Hopkins is aware that playing time will be a critical factor in his decision. Tennessee and USC are both looking for players like him to contribute immediately, but the opportunities for early playing time could be more abundant at one school compared to the others.
- Program Success and Culture: Hopkins will want to play for a program that is on the rise, one that has a winning culture and the potential to compete for championships. Both Tennessee and USC are in strong positions to challenge for national titles in the coming years, which makes them highly attractive options.
- Location and Lifestyle: Beyond football, Hopkins will likely consider the lifestyle and environment that each program offers. Whether it’s the vibrant atmosphere of Los Angeles or the college town feel of Knoxville, each location offers a unique experience that could influence his decision.
