Tennessee is a ‘legitimate contender’ for borderline 5-star WR set to commit this week, but fans are wondering if Vols have a real chance
The Tennessee Volunteers are in the mix for a 2027 borderline five-star wide receiver who is set to announce his commitment later this week.
The Tennessee Vols are in the mix for a high four-star wide receiver who is set to announce his commitment on Saturday.
Tennessee is considered a “legitimate contender” for 2027 four-star wide receiver Osani Gayles, 5-foot-11/185 pounds from Tracy, CA (he attends IMG Academy in Florida).
Gayles is rated by 247Sports as the No. 7 wide receiver in the country and the No. 5 player in the talent-rich state of Florida. He’s also rated as the No. 34 overall player in the 2027 recruiting class.
Unfortunately for the Vols, it looks like Alabama is going to be the pick for Gayles.
“Tennessee and Washington have remained legitimate contenders throughout the process, while Stanford also earned serious consideration, but the latest buzz favors the Crimson Tide,” reported On3’s Chad Simmons on Monday. “Current predictions reflect Alabama as the team to beat entering decision day.”
It’s not really a surprise that Tennessee is expected to miss out on Gayles. The Vols have quite a bit of young wide receiver talent on their roster, and they have a commitment from 2027 four-star wide receiver Kesean Bowman. Tennessee simply isn’t in a position to spend precious NIL resources on an already stocked position group.
I’m sure Vols fans don’t love seeing borderline five-star talent landing with a top conference rival, but it’s only happening because Tennessee wide receivers coach Kelsey Pope has done such an elite job on the recruiring trail.
You can’t sign them all….