In the midst of a heavy recruiting weekend, which saw many big prospects visit Knoxville as well as 4-star safety Lagonza “Shaedy” Hayward announcing his commitment to Tennessee, Vol football fans received some more exciting news Sunday. 4-star tight end Da’Saahn Brame, once an Oregon Ducks commit, declared he was changing course and that Rocky Top was indeed home sweet home. Here are five things to know about Brame and what his commitment means to the Tennessee program.
Not in Kansas Anymore
The 6’6” 235lb Derby, Kans. native plays for Derby High School and will graduate in 2025. In his junior year, he had 46 receptions for 942 yards (20.5 YPC) and 13 touchdowns. 247sports.com has ranked Brame 102 overall, 5th in the tight end position and 4th prospect from the state of Kansas.
Family Ties
Collegiate sports runs in his blood. Both his parents played for Kansas State. His father, Da’Von Brame was a linebacker (1999-2000) and his mother, Nicky Ramage-Brame played on the women’s basketball team from 1996-2000.
Heart to Heart
Brame was originally going to choose Tennessee before committing to the Ducks in June. Brame told Volquest, “I just kept thinking I made the wrong decision. I knew where my heart was.” He went on to detail how his official visit in March where he got to know some transfers and spend time with tight ends coach Alec Abeln sealed the deal. “I got to watch (Abeln) in spring practice,” Brame continued. “He showed me the progress from when the guys came in to now. I really feel like he can develop me into a great player.”
That QB Connection
It also doesn’t hurt that he will have great arms to throw him the ball. “It was huge in just getting to talk to George (QB MacIntyre) and spend a little time with Nico (QB Iamaleava) on my official,” Brame told Volquest. “Just being able to see I have someone that can get me the ball was definitely a big part of it as well.”
Climbing the Charts
Brame’s flip to the Vols vaults Tennessee into the top-10 of the 2025 recruiting class. According to 247sports.com, the Vols are now ranked 5th in that category.
