Last Wednesday was a major step in the right direction for Tennessee football. The Volunteers signed their best class under head man Josh Heupel. The class featured multiple 5-star signees and a significant number of 4-stars.
The 2026 class is no doubt headlined by the No. 2 player in the country, Faizon Brandon. Not only is the 5-star quarterback a star on the gridiron, but he has also been making waves in the Knoxville community off the field.
Last weekend, Faizon Brandon and Grimsley High School knocked off Weddington High School in the NCHSAA 7A semifinals. This Friday, Brandon will play his final high school game, as he will look to lead Grimsley to an NCHSAA 7A title against Clayton High School.
What 5-star Faizon Brandon brings to the state championship game
It’s easy to see why Brandon is rated the second player in the nation. Last season he led Grimsley to a state title, going an undefeated 16-0 during the year. He threw for 2,814 yards, 35 touchdowns, and just two interceptions. Brandon can also carry the rock, as he racked up 625 yards on the ground along with nine touchdowns.
This earned Brandon the Gatorade Player of the Year honor in North Carolina in 2024.
During the 2025 season, Brandon missed some time with a hand injury, nothing too serious, but it was enough to hold him off the field for a little bit. The good news is Brandon is back, and he is balling.
In five games this fall, Brandon has thrown for 978 yards, 10 touchdowns, and an astonishing zero interceptions. Rushing-wise, Brandon has 168 yards and two touchdowns.
This sets the stage for a must-see state title game. The championship game will be played at 8 p.m. ET on Friday night in Chapel Hill, North Carolina at Kenan Stadium.
Vols fans across the country will be cheering on their future quarterback, as Brandon plays one more prep game before he makes his way to Knoxville.
With that said, go out their and make Vols fans proud, Brandon. Big Orange nation has your back and will be pulling for you to capture another title.