The Tennessee Vols made a big-time move last December by flipping 2026 four-star defensive lineman JJ Finch from the Alabama Crimson Tide.

Finch had been committed to Alabama for a little over five months before flipping to Tennessee on the first day of the early signing period.

Despite being a true freshman, there’s an expectation that Finch, who is from Indianapolis, will be a contributor for the Vols this fall.

VolQuest’s Austin Price and Brent Hubbs each pointed out Finch, 6-foot-3/293 pounds, this week as a player to watch during fall camp.

“JJ Finch at the defensive tackle spot is someone that I’m watching early in fall camp,” said Price on 104.5 The Zone’s Ramon and Will. “He’s got something to him that the coaches are really, really high on.”

“JJ Finch is one that’s probably going to help this fall,” added Hubbs on WNML’s SportsTalk.

So why did Finch flip from Alabama to Tennessee last December?

It was simple — he saw a big opportunity at Tennessee with Dominic Bailey and Bryson Eason each heading to the NFL after the 2025 season.

“It was really just a business decision,” said Finch on Thursday. “I saw Bryson Eason and Dom leave, so just [decided to] come in and fill in.”

Sometimes, it’s that simple. Finch’s comments are a great reminder that every recruitment is different. Each player has a different reason for making their decision. Sometimes it’s a particular relationship, other times it’s just the vibe of the school. Often, it’s simply the opportunity.

Whatever the reason, Finch is a player that has the potential to make an instant impact for Tennessee in 2026.