In August 2024, five-star offensive tackle David Sanders Jr. made a significant commitment to the University of Tennessee, choosing the Volunteers over other top programs like Georgia, Ohio State, and Nebraska. This decision was a testament to the strong relationships and consistent communication that Tennessee’s coaching staff had established with Sanders throughout his recruitment.
Sanders, a 6’6″, 270-pound prospect from Providence Day School in Charlotte, North Carolina, was widely regarded as one of the top players in the 2025 recruiting class. His commitment to Tennessee was seen as a major coup for head coach Josh Heupel and the Volunteers’ program. The decision was influenced by several factors, including the personal connections he had developed with Tennessee’s coaching staff and the program’s vision for his development.
Throughout his recruitment, Sanders emphasized the importance of feeling like a priority for the programs he considered. He noted that Tennessee had been consistent and supportive from the beginning, making him feel valued both as a player and as an individual. This level of attention and care stood in contrast to his experiences with other programs, where the communication and relationships were not as strong.
One of the pivotal moments in Sanders’ decision-making process occurred during his official visit to Tennessee in June 2024. He recalled a conversation with head coach Josh Heupel and his family in the coach’s office, where he felt a deep sense of connection and belonging. This experience solidified his belief that Tennessee was the right fit for him.(
In the months following his commitment, rumors circulated that Georgia was making a concerted effort to flip Sanders’ commitment. Despite these efforts, Sanders remained steadfast in his decision to stay “locked in” with Tennessee. He continued to express his loyalty to the program and its coaching staff, reinforcing his commitment through public statements and interactions with the Tennessee community.
Sanders’ story highlights the significance of relationships and consistent communication in the college football recruiting process. While programs like Georgia have a rich tradition and a history of success, the personal connections and the sense of belonging that Sanders felt at Tennessee played a crucial role in his decision to remain committed.
As Sanders prepares to join the Tennessee football program, his commitment serves as a reminder of the impact that strong relationships and a supportive environment can have on a recruit’s decision. For Tennessee, securing a commitment from a player of Sanders’ caliber is a significant achievement that underscores the program’s growing appeal and the effectiveness of its recruiting efforts.
Looking ahead, Sanders’ presence on the offensive line is expected to bolster Tennessee’s prospects in the coming seasons. His skill set and potential make him a valuable asset to the Volunteers, and his commitment is seen as a positive indicator of the program’s trajectory under Coach Heupel’s leadership.
In conclusion, David Sanders Jr.’s decision to spurn Georgia and remain committed to Tennessee is a testament to the power of personal relationships and consistent communication in the recruiting process. It underscores the importance of making recruits feel valued and supported, and it highlights the role that these factors play in shaping the future of college football programs.
