Josh Heupel has made it clear that Tennessee is focused on landing an elite running back in the Class of 2027. The Vols just added a late signing day running back in 2026, so bringing in another top-tier back next year makes perfect sense.
Let's take a peak at the top three running back targets for the Vols.
David Gabriel Georges (Chattanooga, TN)
David Gabriel Georges would probably be the best get for the Vols regardless of position in the class of 2027. 247Sports has Gabriel Georges rated as a five-star prospect and the No. 2 running back in the class of 2027, as well as the No. 1 player in Tennessee. The6-foot, 200-pound back was named a 2025 MaxPreps Junior All-America Football Team member last fall. He has offers from Ohio State, Alabama, Georgia, Texas, Notre Dame, Oregon, and plenty of others.
Tennessee is in a good spot with the star tailback, as they have made his top eight schools, but there is still a long way to go. Gabriel Georges hits the hole hard with great speed and uses his elite vision to find a way to get through the line. Josh Heupel will have to keep chipping away at the star running back's recruitment.
Andrew Beard (Bogart, GA)
Tennessee has made the official visit list for Beard, a 5-foot-9, 200-pound running back, as he just announced it yesterday. Landing the talented tailback won't be easy, though, as Tennessee will have to beat out Georgia, Florida, and Clemson for Beards' commitment.
Beard runs behind his pads with a great blend ofbalance, power, and maneuverability to avoid defenders. He makes one cut and goes downfield with good acceleration. It's no wonder 247Sports has him rated as a top-five running back in the nation.
Tyson Robinson (Brandon, MS)
Robinson, a 5-foot-9, 200-pound tailback, is another huge priority for Tennessee in the 2027 class, and on June 19th, he will make his way to Knoxville for an official visit. Robinson is a three-down back who has speed to breakaway at the second level and the ability to make plays in the passing game as a receiver. He is rated the No. 73 overall player in the class of 2027 by the 247Sports composite.
Last fall, Robinson had 76 carries for 1,295 yards and 24 touchdowns, an insane stat line for a running back. Michigan, Miami, Arizona State, and Texas A&M are also in pursuit of the talented running back.