In Josh Heupel’s offense, having great wide receivers are crucial. It seems Tennessee football is after another one of those wide receivers in the class of 2025.
Wide receiver Giyahni Kontosis was extended a scholarship offer from Tennessee football on Tuesday. Receivers coach Kelsey Pope and linebackers coach Brian Jean-Mary have been involved with his recruitment.
“I was very excited, especially because this is my first SEC offer,” Kontosis told Off The Hook Sports. “I think Tennessee is a great school, great coaches, great program and great environment.”
Kontosis chose to use a picture of Jalin Hyatt, Tennessee’s most successful receiver in 2022 and the Vols’ first Biletnikoff Award winner. Kontosis saw Hyatt’s success in 2022, catching the young prospect’s attention.
“He’s a great player just seeing him come up big in big games just motivates me,” Kontosis said.
Heupel’s receiver-friendly offense caught his attention as well. He can see himself fitting well into the up-tempo style the Vols play.
“As a WR I definitely feel I can fit into the offense,” he said. “I love their passing game which is similar to my High School’s passing game.”
Kontosis who hails from Upper Marlboro, Md., said he’s been receiving “a lot of love” from Virginia Tech, Virginia, and Maryland. Just a sophomore, the early attention from power-five schools has meant a lot to him.
“Seeing all my hard work paying off just motivates me to keep going,” he said. “I just give thanks to God.”
As a sophomore for Rock Creek Christian Academy, the 6-foot-1 and 175-pound receiver picked up 917 yards and 11 touchdowns on 47 catches. He mainly lined up on the outside this past season, but can play the slot as well.
The deep ball is a crucial element in the offense Tennessee football runs, and Kontosis sees himself as being a deep threat in college.
“I see my role being a deep threat and just a big play guy,” he said. “I love making big plays when my team needs me. I love having that chip on my shoulder.”
Kontosis has looked up to D.K. Metcalf for much of his young career. The NFL receiver plays with a big, physical style. Kontosis likes to emulate that style.
“Just how strong and physical (Metcalf) is, which is what I am,” Kontosis said. “Also he’s a receiver that can highpoint the ball and make big plays.”
Kontosis plans on taking a trip to Knoxville during the spring, but he isn’t sure exactly when yet. As for his recruitment, he plans on narrowing his schools down next season before making a decision down the road.
As he plans visits during the offseason, Kontosis is looking for something specific in his colleges – a place where he can be utilized.
“Honestly, I’m looking for a school that can use me in the right way,” Kontosis said. “What stands out from a coach is them showing strong interest and wanting me for me, not just for football.”
