Tennessee’s 2026 football recruiting class gained a significant addition this week with the commitment of four-star linebacker Brayden Rouse. Rouse, a standout at Kell High School in Marietta, Georgia, chose the Volunteers over prominent programs such as Alabama, Texas, and Michigan.
Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 220 pounds, Rouse is highly regarded, ranked as the No. 4 linebacker in the 2026 class and the No. 8 player in Georgia according to 247Sports. His versatility on the field stands out; he excels in multiple positions including defensive end, safety, wide receiver, and tight end. Outside of football, Rouse also participates in basketball and track and field, showcasing his athletic talents across various sports.
Tennessee initially offered him a scholarship on August 16, 2024. Rouse took unofficial visits to Knoxville for games against Florida and UTEP later that season and made additional visits before finalizing his commitment with an official tour on June 20.
This latest commitment brings Tennessee’s 2026 recruiting class to a total of 19 players. Other commitments include quarterback Faizon Brandon, linebacker Braylon Outlaw, and defensive end Kedric Golston II, among others, indicating a strong and diverse recruiting effort by the Volunteers.
Tennessee’s recruiting momentum continues to build, reflecting the program’s growing appeal among top prospects. With such a solid foundation in the pipeline, fans can remain optimistic about the future of Tennessee football.