Classes have begun at the University of Tennessee, and 23 of the 26 signees in the Vols’ 2025 recruiting class are already enrolled. With spring practice less than two months away, here’s a look at the five early enrollees most likely to make an immediate splash for the Vols based on their talent and the need at the position they play.
George MacIntyre, QB
Yes, Nico Iamaleava is the starter, but George MacIntyre has a combination of talent and intangibles likely to blow away everybody involved with the program. Given the recruiting he did for Tennessee after committing, he also probably has established a rapport with some of the guys, which could do him a lot of favors in the future. Could this mean a quarterback competition?
Timothy Merritt, CB
Jermod McCoy coming back from an ACL tear and the transfer portal window having closed will actually open up a bit of cornerback competition in the spring. Timothy Merritt is only a three-star, but he is tested coming out of Birmingham, so don’t be surprised if he’s able to make a push and grab the coaches’ attention relatively quickly.
Travis Smith Jr., WR
It’s no secret Tennessee lost tons of wide receivers to the portal. Sure, they added Amari Jefferson, but they’re really lacking in depth with tall wideouts. The Vols added three this year, none of whom are more highly touted than Travis Smith Jr. is. Standing between 6’3″ and 6’4″ while weighing almost right at 200 pounds, Smith already has the body type. Watch out to see if he makes an early impact.
Isaiah Campbell, DL
Provided he stands out in offseason conditioning, Isaiah Campbell could get to the size Rodney Garner needs him to be in order to help fill a major void in the interior of the defensive line. Tennessee lost Omari Thomas, Elijah Simmons and Omarr Norman-Lott, so they have a lot to replace. They will be looking for Campbell to stand out.
David Sanders Jr., OT
Was there ever any debate about this one? Tennessee has an opening at tackle with John Campbell Jr. gone, and David Sanders Jr. is the Vols’ most highly touted recruit since Eric Berry. It’s rare, but he’s the type of offensive lineman who could start as a freshman, and Glen Elarbee will be watching him heavily once spring practice kicks off.
