One of the biggest recruiting battles of the summer is nearing its end. 

2025 five-star offensive lineman David Sanders Jr is a top priority for the Tennessee Vols. 

Tennessee has worked hard over the last several months to land the coveted offensive lineman. But other programs, like Ohio State, Georgia, Alabama, and Clemson are also in heavy pursuit of Sanders. 

The five-star recruit wrapped up his official visits this past weekend after taking a trip to Ohio State. Sanders, who is rated as the No. 1 offensive tackle in the nation, is expected to announce his commitment later this summer (July or August). 

Tennessee has long been viewed as one of the frontrunners for Sanders. But Ohio State appears to be right there with the Vols. 

In fact, On3's Steve Wiltfong noted on Monday that "folks that spent time" with Sanders feel like Ohio State is out in front in this recruiting battle. 

"Now it’s a waiting game with Sanders but there are folks that spent time with him that feel OSU is in front," wrote Wiltfong. 

Wiltfong also pointed out that "the vibe is Buckeyes or Tennessee from those that spent time with Sanders on campus". 

It sounds like this is going to come down to Tennessee or Ohio State and it wouldn't be a surprise to see either program land Sanders. 

One thing working in the Vols' favor is distance. Sanders is from Charlotte which is a four-hour drive from Knoxville. 

Columbus, meanwhile, is an almost seven-hour drive from Charlotte. 

I doubt that the three hour difference is going to be one of Sanders' main deciding factors, but it could be a tie-breaker if he's having trouble making a decision. 

Either way, it seems the Vols have done all they can in this recruiting battle. Now, they must simply let the chips fall where they may. 

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