In a significant boost to their 2025 recruiting class, the Tennessee Volunteers have secured a commitment from five-star offensive tackle David Sanders Jr., who has been elevated to the No. 2 overall prospect in the final 2025 recruiting rankings. Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 270 pounds, Sanders is recognized as the premier offensive tackle in his class.
Hailing from Providence Day School in Charlotte, North Carolina, Sanders had his pick of elite programs, including Alabama, Georgia, Clemson, Ohio State, and South Carolina. Ultimately, he chose Tennessee, citing the longstanding interest and commitment from the Volunteers’ coaching staff. “The Volunteers, they’ve been on top for a very long time,” Sanders remarked. “Coach [Josh] Heupel and that coaching staff, they’ve done an amazing job for me and my family.”
Sanders’ commitment marks a milestone for Tennessee, as he becomes the highest-rated recruit of the Josh Heupel era. His addition bolsters an already impressive 2025 recruiting class, which includes five-star offensive tackle Douglas Utu from Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas. Utu, standing at 6-foot-6 and 285 pounds, is ranked No. 11 in the ESPN 300 and is the third-ranked offensive tackle in the class.
The Volunteers’ 2025 class is further strengthened by commitments from four-star quarterback George MacIntyre, offensive lineman Nic Moore, and defensive lineman Ethan Utley, among others. This influx of top-tier talent underscores Tennessee’s growing appeal under Coach Heupel’s leadership.
Sanders is expected to make an immediate impact upon his arrival in Knoxville. His combination of size, athleticism, and technical skill positions him as a potential cornerstone for the Volunteers’ offensive line. As he prepares for his senior year at Providence Day School, Sanders aims to build upon his impressive high school career before joining Tennessee for the 2025 season.
With the addition of Sanders and other key recruits, Tennessee’s 2025 class is shaping up to be one of the most formidable in recent memory, signaling a bright future for the program