Surprise Commitment: The Nation’s No. 3 Four-Star Offensive Tackle, Kamari Blair, Flips to Tennessee Vols Football at Midnight — Calling Tennessee “The Only Choice That Felt Like Home”
In one of the most unexpected twists of the 2026 recruiting cycle, the Tennessee Volunteers have secured a major commitment from Kamari Blair, the nation’s No. 3 four-star offensive tackle. Blair made the surprise announcement just after midnight, flipping his commitment from South Carolina to Tennessee, a move that instantly boosts the Vols’ recruiting momentum.
Blair, a 6-foot-6, 320-pound standout from Buford High School in Georgia, had been a vocal pledge to the Gamecocks for months. But after several visits to Knoxville and consistent communication with the Tennessee coaching staff, Blair said his heart was telling him something different.
“Tennessee just felt like home,” Blair said in a statement released early Wednesday morning. “The coaches, the fans, the energy — everything about it was different. I realized this is where I belong. It’s the only choice that truly felt like home.”
Head coach Josh Heupel and offensive line coach Glen Elarbee led Tennessee’s recruitment of Blair, keeping in touch daily and showing him how he could be a cornerstone of the Vols’ offensive front. Their persistence paid off, as Blair becomes one of the highest-rated offensive linemen to commit to Tennessee in recent years.
“Kamari is a program-changing player,” Heupel said following the news. “He’s got the tools — size, power, athleticism — but more importantly, he’s got a tremendous work ethic. We’re excited for what he’ll bring to our team and culture.”
Blair’s decision to flip from South Carolina to Tennessee marks a significant win for the Vols within the SEC East, as the two programs have battled on the recruiting trail for top prospects across the Southeast. Analysts say the move signals Tennessee’s growing reputation as a top destination for elite talent, especially in the trenches.
Recruiting expert Chad Simmons described Blair’s flip as “a massive statement” for the Vols’ 2026 class. “To take a top-three offensive tackle away from an SEC rival — that’s a recruiting power move,” Simmons said. “It shows that Tennessee’s pitch, development, and culture are resonating with blue-chip talent.”
On the field, Blair is known for his explosive first step, strong hands, and ability to dominate in both pass protection and run blocking. His high school coaches have praised his leadership and maturity, describing him as the “anchor” of Buford’s offensive line.
Blair’s commitment strengthens what is quickly becoming one of Tennessee’s best offensive line groups in recent memory. With his blend of physicality and poise, he’s expected to compete early and help set the tone for the Vols’ offensive identity moving forward.
For Tennessee fans, Blair’s midnight flip is more than just another recruiting victory — it’s a sign that the Vols’ climb back to national prominence is ver
y real
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