Ask any Tennessee football fan who they want in the 2027 class, and most of them will say five-star in-state running back David Gabriel Georges. Josh Heupel has made the talented running back his top target for the past few years, consistently recruiting him. The Baylor school product in Chattanooga, ranked as the No. 12 player in the country and the No. 2 running back by 247Sports. He's been on campus countless times, including the Orange and White Game this past weekend.
The Jim Knowles effect already visible as Tennessee secondary locks down spring game
Given this, the longstanding relationship between the Vols and the talented running back has paid off. Tennessee has just made the cut in Gabriel George's most recent trimmings. Tennessee is in the top four along with powerhouses Ohio State, Georgia, and Ole Miss.
Vols officially in the final 4 for 5-Star RB David Gabriel Georges ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/7Xmm9St1gs
— Joey Petersen (@joeypetersen8) April 14, 2026
Tennessee, Josh Heupel make the David Gabriel Georges top-four
With that in mind, this is a big development for Tennessee and Josh Heupel. He’s been a priority target from the start, and it’s starting to pay off. Now it comes down to delivering on his summer visit to try to lock in a commitment from David Gabriel Georges. Ohio State won't go down without a fight, though, as the Buckeyes have been rumored to be the Vols' main competition for the five-star tailback. They have a lot to sell, as Ryan Day consistently puts players in the league, especially at running back.
On top of that, the Vols have had their share of success at the position. Josh Heupel has shifted toward a more running back-friendly offense, and Tennessee has produced strong seasons from players like Jaylen Wright, Dylan Sampson, and the emergence of DeSean Bishop. Not to mention, David Gabriel Georges would have a chance to compete for a starting role right away, with Bishop likely gone after this season.
Georgia and Ole Miss both have a lot to offer as well, but right now this feels like a two-team race. Still, in the NIL era, nothing is guaranteed. Josh Heupel will need to stay aggressive and, ideally, close the deal sooner rather than later.
Add us as a preferred source on Google