Everyone’s searching for the ‘keys’ to the future. While the 2024 season is still underway and the 2025 recruits are making noise, it’s hard to ignore what’s coming in 2026. The 2026 recruiting class is packed with talent, so it’s no surprise that college football programs are already gearing up to stay ahead in the recruiting game. Mike Elko and Texas A&M have been making waves with possible elite commitments including the nation’s No. 1 ATH of the 2026 recruiting class. But they may have to lose to another program when it comes to luring one of the top 2026 WR prospects. 

In a new YouTube episode on On3 Recruits on October 26, Josh Newberg was joined by On3 Director of Recruiting Chad Simmons to discuss elite 2025 recruits. They talked about Tristen Keys, who is the No. 2 WR in the nation and No. 9 overall in the nation. As Simmons observes, Keys has several instances that have raised the odds of Tennessee as a possible future school. The Hattiesburg, Mississippi product has been at the Tennessee vs Florida game in Week 6. But here’s what Simmons noted, “The night before that, an interesting note is he was off that week. He flew over to North Carolina to watch Faizon Brandon, the quarterback committed to Tennessee and they’ve become quite a pair. They talk a lot and communicate and they built that relationship and that connection.”

For an explosive 6’3, 170-pounder like the Mississippi star, it’s expected that a lot of programs are after him including Mississippi State and Ole Miss. He also holds the interest of CFB powerhouses like Alabama, Auburn, and LSU. Simmons also added that Lane Kiffin and the Rebels had wanted Tristen Keys on campus this weekend. But Keys is set to visit Mike Elko’s program instead this weekend for their battle with LSU. 

Still, considering his situationship with Josh Heupel’s Volunteers, the upcoming Texas A&M visit is merely a formality. It’s not hard to believe that Tennessee could be his future landing place. His early connection with elite future QB Faizon Brandon who committed to Tennessee earlier in August is proof enough that he has long-term plans with the Volunteers. But if more proof is necessary for his closeness with Tennessee, let’s hear what he has to say. 

Tristen Keys is enamored with Tennessee 

Thanks to Faizon Brandon’s commitment and his connection with the coaching staff, Tristen Keys is able to see what he wants early on. During his interview with Tennessee on SI, he said, “Tennessee really communicates a lot. I talk to them just about 4-5 times a week. They make me feel wanted and comfortable in being part of their program and they have been doing a great job.” Keys also credited coaches — HC Heupel, OC and QB coach Joey Halzle, and WR coach Kelsey Pope — who were responsible for attracting his interest.

Perhaps, the biggest reason still lies in Tennessee’s acquisition of Faizon Brandon. Hear it from Keys himself: “I think we would be a great duo. I’ve caught some great passes from him before at future 50 and every football was completed. Just knowing Faizon can spin the ba-l and me having that relationship with him is a big thing.” His commitment will not really matter right now as he’ll only get some college football action in 2026. Still, it’s going to be a big win for Tennessee to win him over and they’ll get another chance to dazzle him when Keys keeps his word about visiting them again in the upcoming weeks.