The Tennessee Volunteers have officially secured one of the most highly coveted recruits for their 2025 class. On Thursday, five-star offensive lineman David Sanders Jr. made it official, announcing his commitment to the Vols during a segment on The Finebaum Show. Sanders, ranked as the No. 1 offensive lineman in the nation, hails from Charlotte, North Carolina, and his commitment marks a monumental victory for Tennessee in the fiercely competitive world of college football recruiting.
Sanders had committed to the Vols back in August, but Ohio State made a late push, even securing a visit from Sanders to Columbus during the Buckeyes’ victory against Indiana. Despite the pressure, Sanders chose to stay true to his original commitment to Tennessee, much to the delight of Volunteers fans.
One of the major factors that helped seal the deal for Tennessee was the influence of former Vols offensive lineman, and current Kansas City Chiefs star, Trey Smith. Smith, who has enjoyed a stellar career and is on track to become the highest-paid guard in the NFL this offseason, played a significant role in Sanders’ decision.
In an interview with 104.5’s 3HL on Thursday, Sanders expressed how Smith’s guidance helped him realize that Tennessee would be the ideal place to further his development. “Trey Smith did a phenomenal job, as well, just getting me to understand that Tennessee is a great spot for me,” Sanders shared. “How they treated him even after he was done playing. Having him as a mentor when I get there is going to be great. And just being able to build that relationship with him.”
Smith, who entered the NFL in 2021, has been a staunch ambassador for the Vols program ever since. A Tennessee native, he frequently returns to Knoxville for Vols athletic events when his schedule allows and is often seen proudly wearing the Power T, promoting his alma mater wherever he goes. Given Smith’s incredible success in the SEC and NFL, his mentorship will undoubtedly be invaluable for Sanders as he embarks on his own college and professional football journey.
Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel and the Vols coaching staff are undoubtedly thrilled to have added Sanders to the roster. The program continues to build momentum under Heupel’s leadership, and securing a recruit of Sanders’ caliber is a clear sign of Tennessee’s commitment to competing at the highest levels of college football. As Sanders joins a growing pipeline of top talent at Tennessee, he will be expected to play a crucial role in the Vols’ offensive line, potentially contributing immediately upon his arrival.
This commitment is a massive win for Tennessee as they continue to establish themselves as a powerhouse in both recruiting and on-field performance. With influential figures like Trey Smith guiding the way, the Vols’ future looks brighter than ever.
