How Josh Heupel’s recruiting strategy could elevate Tennessee in the coming years

After the 2026 class was finalized, many Vols fans were excited about what could come from the 2027 class, and so far, the early returns have been solid. Josh Heupel may not have the star power in this class that he had last year, but overall, the group has some really nice pieces that could become an important part of Tennessee’s future.

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One of the biggest strengths of Tennessee’s 2027 class is Josh Heupel’s commitment to in-state recruiting. The Vols already have eight Tennessee natives committed, including four four-star prospects. That’s a major win for the program and a sign that the staff is building a strong foundation close to home.

The overall trajectory of Heupel prioritizing in-state recruiting will pay dividends down the road. Keeping top in-state prospects at home and continuing to invest in recruiting within Tennessee will always be beneficial. The state continues to produce great talent, and having strong relationships with local schools will always be a plus for the program.

For example, places like Baylor School are somewhere that Tennessee has consistently recruited and has paid off over the years. The Vols’ success there, including landing five-star tackle Gabriel Osenda, has helped them build relationships that could pay off with five-star 2027 offensive tackle David Gabriel-Georges, who has been Tennessee's No. 1 target in 2027 for quite some time. Braxton Rein, the top player in Tennessee in 2028, is also from Baylor School, so keeping up the pipeline is massive.

More to come from Tennessee in 2027?

Tennessee still has a chance to add even more in-state talent to the 2027 class. This weekend, the Vols will host three Tennessee prospects: running back Asa Barnes from Martin, tight end Colton Johnson from Baxter, and four-star edge rusher Antwan Jackson from Collierville.

Even if Tennessee can pick up one or two of these prospects, it would be a big weekend. Barnes is a very skilled running back who has a great feel for the game and the patience to find running lanes. I think he would fit Tennessee’s offense really well and could form a strong one-two punch with David Gabriel Georges if the Vols were to land him.

Colton Johnson is another intriguing tight end prospect who would pair nicely with Malik Howard, a player many believe has star potential. Johnson brings value as a blocker and has enough athleticism to contribute in multiple ways. He would be a solid add, especially if Tennessee wants to take a second tight end in the class.

What the Vols desperately need is an edge riser in this cycle, and Antwan Jackson would fill that need instantly. He has the length and athleticism you look for on the edge, along with the flexibility to bend around the corner and pressure quarterbacks. The traits are definitely there, and if Tennessee can get itself in a good position with him, it would be a major win.

Overall, Tennessee has a strong chance to improve its class with several in-state players. Recruiting will always be the lifeblood of the program, and keeping Tennessee the top in-state destination will help the Vols continue attracting big-time talent.

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