Vol Football Lands Safety Over Michigan State, Others

Image: On3

By Cody McClure

Tennessee Football landed another key commitment for the class of 2026 on Wednesday.

KJ McClain, a 3-star safety out of New Jersey, officially made his pledge to the Vols — giving Josh Heupel his ninth commitment in the class.

McClain chose Tennessee over Michigan State after a recent official visit to Knoxville. He had scholarship offers from nearly 20 schools.

The Vols’ newest defensive back comes in as a top 50 overall safety in the ‘26 class, per 247 Sports.

"It kind of just hit me, you know?" McClain reportedly said. "I knew what I want. I just had to go take the opportunity."

"…Tennessee was the place."

When a place feels like home, a commitment is made easy.