In a significant development in college football recruiting, Kamari Blair, a four-star offensive tackle from Kirkwood High School in Clarksville, Tennessee, has flipped his commitment from the University of South Carolina to the University of Tennessee. This move not only strengthens Tennessee’s 2026 recruiting class but also adds a formidable presence to their offensive line for the future.(Clarksville Now)
Blair, standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 281 pounds, initially committed to South Carolina on July 16, 2025, after a thorough recruitment process. He had visited several schools, including Tennessee, Ole Miss, and South Carolina, before making his decision. However, on August 21, 2025, Blair announced his decision to decommit from South Carolina and commit to Tennessee, citing a strong connection with the coaching staff and a desire to play closer to home.(Clarksville Now)
His commitment to Tennessee is seen as a significant win for head coach Josh Heupel and his staff, who have been actively working to build a strong 2026 recruiting class. Blair’s decision adds to a growing list of commitments for the Volunteers, bolstering their offensive line for the upcoming seasons.
Blair’s recruitment was highly competitive, with numerous schools vying for his commitment. His decision to join Tennessee underscores the program’s growing appeal and the effectiveness of their recruiting efforts. As a top-tier offensive lineman, Blair is expected to make an immediate impact on Tennessee’s offensive line, contributing to the team’s success in the coming years.(On3)
This development also has implications for South Carolina’s recruiting efforts. Blair’s decommitment leaves a gap in their 2026 class, which the Gamecocks will now look to fill. Despite this setback, South Carolina remains a competitive program with a strong recruiting pipeline and will continue to pursue top talent to strengthen their roster.(SI)
In a significant development in the 2026 college football recruiting cycle, four-star offensive tackle Kamari Blair has flipped his commitment from the University of South Carolina to the University of Tennessee. The 6-foot-6, 280-pound prospect from Clarksville, Tennessee, made the announcement on August 21, 2025, marking a pivotal moment in both programs’ recruiting efforts.On3Rocky Top Insider+3On3+3Yahoo Sports+3
Blair’s decision to switch allegiances comes just over a month after he initially committed to South Carolina on July 16, 2025. At that time, he chose the Gamecocks over other contenders, including Tennessee and Ole Miss. However, after further reflection and consideration of his options, Blair decided to re-evaluate his commitment, ultimately choosing to join the Volunteers’ 2026 recruiting class .Clarksville Now
Ranked as the No. 22 offensive tackle and No. 274 overall prospect in the nation by the Rivals Industry Ranking, Blair is considered one of the top recruits in Tennessee. His decision to commit to Tennessee adds a significant boost to the Volunteers’ recruiting efforts, particularly on the offensive line, where depth and talent are crucial for future success .On3+1
Blair’s recruitment has been closely followed by college football analysts and fans alike, given his impressive physical attributes and on-field performance. His size and skill set make him a formidable presence on the offensive line, capable of contributing immediately at the collegiate level. At Tennessee, Blair will have the opportunity to develop under the guidance of the Volunteers’ coaching staff, known for their emphasis on player development and performance.
This commitment flip also underscores the competitive nature of college football recruiting, where decisions can be influenced by various factors, including coaching staff, program culture, and personal preferences. For Tennessee, securing Blair’s commitment is a testament to the program’s appeal and the relationships built during the recruiting process.
As Blair prepares for his senior season at Kirkwood High School, his decision to join Tennessee signals a new chapter in his football journey. With the Volunteers’ 2026 recruiting class continuing to take shape, Blair’s addition strengthens the program’s prospects for the future, both on the field and in the recruiting landscape.Clarksville Now+1
For South Carolina, Blair’s decommitment is a setback, but the program remains focused on its recruiting objectives. The Gamecocks continue to pursue other top-tier prospects to bolster their offensive line and overall team strength. Recruiting is an ongoing process, and while losing a player of Blair’s caliber is challenging, it also opens opportunities to bring in other talent that aligns with the team’s needs and goals.
Overall, Kamari Blair’s commitment to Tennessee is a significant boost for the Volunteers’ 2026 recruiting class and highlights the dynamic nature of college football recruiting, where commitments can shift, and programs must continuously work to attract top talent. As Blair prepares for his senior season at Kirkwood High School, all eyes will be on his development and his future contributions to Tennessee’s football program.(Clarksville Now)
