Josh Heupel stalwartly led the Tennessee Vols into the playoffs last year and was looking to gustily advance further. But the Buckeyes‘ 42-17 victory dashed hopes of further history for the Vols. Heupel’s time in the program has delivered success to a degree. In his first season, the team finished 7-6, followed by an impressive 11-2 finish in 2022. The 2023 season had a hiccup, with the Vols losing 4 games, but they bounced back in 2024 with a 10-win season under their belt. However, while the on-field performances have seen an upward shift, one thing hasn’t changed much for the program—the recruiting game.

When we say ‘hasn’t changed much,’ it’s a comparative analysis of the past few seasons. Of course, the Vols had a No. 22 recruiting class in 2021 with no 5-star commit. That did improve in 2022 when the program had a No. 17 recruiting class, but again no 5-star commit.

That commitment ultimately happened in 2023 when the Vols secured the services of their current QB1, Nico Iamaleava. As a result, they had a No. 10 recruiting class. 2024 saw a dip, with the program having a No. 14 recruiting class. Now, we’re here—2025. How did Heupel’s program fare? Well, no. 11 recruiting class. Heupel is eager to change that in 2026. We can already see that with the Vols currently having a No. 6 recruiting class. They have secured eight commitments, including five-star QB Faizon Brandon. And we may have some more good news when it comes to the 2026 class.

Three of the best in contention are looking at Knoxville, and the staff seems keen to have them on board. Josh Heupel might just be striking gold with these possible recruits. Steve Wiltfong appeared on On3 Recruits’ March 15 video and shed light on who these lucrative talents are. New Jersey’s No. 1 edge rusher, Luke Wafle, was on campus yesterday and reportedly had a good time there. Wiltfong said, “He said it was a great experience. Coach Heupel, Coach Garner, and his D-line staff are just genuine people; great coaches.” He then highlighted how Garner’s years of experience in the SEC of training defensive linemen “spoke” to Wafle.

The other talent that the Vols look attracted to is IOL Darius Gray. Ranked No. 1 in Virginia and No. 2 in the country, this is someone Tennessee will have to fight for. Wiltfong noted that the program’s offensive line has greatly improved under Heupel and company. Gray would be an easy choice here. “He really enjoyed watching Coach Ellerby coach that offensive line, the patience he had, the way he was able to help guys work through mistakes, […] he said the visit was absolutely great.”

Next was Raleigh Edge Rusher Keysaun Eleazer. “He’s got a frame that’ll remind of James Pierce, compares himself to James Pierce, loves the way that they’ve developed James Pierce,” Wiltfong said. The analyst further added that this was what resonated with him at Knoxville.

But Tennessee will have to roll up its sleeves to try and get them to commit. Schools like FSU, Georgia, Ohio State, North Carolina, and even juggernauts like Alabama are also setting their targets on them. Sure, it is way too early to make predictions. But Tennessee has the potential to create some serious magic this season. This is not something you want to miss out on in your college career.

Josh Heupel has a dual-talented recruit from the transfer portal

Heupel has also picked a key talent from the transfer portal already. Sam Pendleton transferred to Knoxville from Notre Dame. He might end up playing dual roles for the defense this season, adding even more oomph to this growing roster. Here’s how things are looking for Pendleton, according to A to Z Sports.

Cooper Mays, who was the last center for the Vols, was instrumental in getting that playoff seat. With Mays gone (and sadly, snubbed by the NFL scouting combine last year), William Satterwhite is a possible hopeful. “He’s been a great piece for us even last year coming in as a freshman, taking a lot of reps in practice. So, I’ve always had a good rapport with Satt,” said QB Iamaleava.

Pendleton, on the other hand, is at a crossroads. Now, he is someone who is “comfortable” at that position, having done numerous practice reps as one at South Bend. At Tennessee, he’s also working for the right guard post, alongside taking center reps. A to Z Sports thinks he might end up at the former instead of the latter. Then again, it’s way too early to have a clear stance. Heupel’s priority at the moment is to find a steady replacement who can match up to Mays’ level of game.

Recruitment is undoubtedly going to be an interesting battle to see as the Vols and other programs do their best to keep their rosters as impactful as possible. With what the Vols produced last season, we’re sure to see some high-octane action on the turf in the future, too, with new talents.