Vols Keep Momentum Going With Elite LInebacker Addition

Image: Tennessee Athletics

By Aidan Sidoti

Tennessee’s July surge on the recruiting trail continued on Tuesday night with its crown jewel of the 2026 defensive recruiting class, as elite four-star linebacker Brayden Rouse announced his commitment to the Volunteers over fake UT, Michigan, and Alabama.

The 6-foot-3, 220 pound standout from Marietta, Georgia had been the top target for head coach Josh Heupel and linebackers coach William Inge for almost two years–and it paid off in a big way. 

Rouse had made seven visits to Knoxville, including a pivotal final official visit from June 20–22 that helped UT cement their positioning. Despite the late push from Texas, the Vols held firm, leading on their long-lasting relationships, and with the chance of getting on the field early. 

“This is probably my best Tennessee visit so far,” Rouse told VolQuest following his official. “Just to come down here and keep building those relationships with the coaches and players all weekend was great. Because that’s potentially who you are going to be with.” 

With Rouse becoming the 19th commitment for the Volunteers, the No. 68 overall prospect and top-10 player in the state of Georgia joins an elite linebacker class in Knoxville– one that already includes TJ White and Braylon Outlaw.