BREAKING: Four-Star Linebacker TJ White Commits to Tennessee Volunteers Over Florida State, Mississippi State, and Auburn

BREAKING: Four-Star Linebacker TJ White Commits to Tennessee Volunteers Over Florida State, Mississippi State, and Auburn

 

In a major recruiting victory for Tennessee, four-star linebacker TJ White has officially announced his commitment to the Tennessee Volunteers, choosing the Vols over strong offers from Florida State, Mississippi State, and Auburn. The decision marks another significant win for head coach Josh Heupel and his staff as they continue to build a dominant 2026 recruiting class filled with top defensive talent.

 

White, a highly touted linebacker from Georgia, has quickly risen through the recruiting ranks thanks to his athleticism, physicality, and leadership on the field. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing around 215 pounds, he’s known for his explosive speed, sharp instincts, and ability to read plays before they develop. His commitment not only strengthens Tennessee’s defensive future but also signals the growing appeal of the Vols’ defensive program under defensive coordinator Tim Banks.

 

“I felt like Tennessee was home from the start,” White said during his announcement. “Coach Heupel and Coach Banks have built something special in Knoxville. The energy, the fans, and the family atmosphere really stood out to me. I know I can grow both as a player and a person there.”

 

White’s recruitment had been one of the most closely watched in the Southeast. He took official visits to Tennessee and Florida State earlier this summer, while Auburn and Mississippi State also made strong late pushes to secure his commitment. However, the Vols’ consistency, player development track record, and defensive vision ultimately won him over.

 

According to 247Sports, White ranks among the top 15 linebackers in the nation and is considered one of the top defensive prospects in the Southeast. His versatility allows him to play both inside and outside linebacker positions, making him a valuable addition to Tennessee’s hybrid defensive schemes. Scouts praise his relentless motor, high football IQ, and ability to make plays in both run defense and pass coverage.

 

With White’s commitment, Tennessee continues its momentum on the recruiting trail. The Volunteers’ 2026 class already includes several blue-chip prospects on both sides of the ball, positioning them as one of the top programs in the SEC for future seasons.

 

For Heupel and his staff, White’s pledge represents more than just another high-profile signing — it’s a statement about the program’s growing ability to compete with traditional SEC and ACC powers for elite recruits.

 

“TJ brings everything we want in a Volunteer — toughness, speed, intelligence, and leadership,” said one Tennessee staff member. “He’s the kind of player who changes games and sets the tone for everyone around him.”

 

As White prepares to finish his high school career, Tennessee fans can already envision him making an impact in Neyland Stadium, leading the Vols’ defense against some of the toughest offenses in the country.

 

With this commitment, the Volunteers continue to prove that they are not just rebuilding — they are reloading for a championship future.