Dylan Lewis, a standout recruit for the University of Tennessee’s 2025 class, recently had the chance to attend a Florida Gators game day as part of a visit to Gainesville. While Lewis has already committed to Tennessee, the experience offered him an opportunity to see the atmosphere at another top SEC program, and it also gave him a fresh perspective on his commitment to the Volunteers.
The four-star athlete has been a significant addition to Tennessee’s 2025 class, known for his speed, versatility, and competitive spirit on both sides of the ball. His visit to Florida has drawn interest from fans and analysts alike, as they speculated on what the trip might mean for his commitment to the Vols. However, Lewis used the opportunity to explore what other schools have to offer while reaffirming why he believes Tennessee is the right fit for him.
After spending the weekend at Florida, Lewis had positive things to say about the game-day environment in Gainesville. The Swamp, known for its loud and passionate fanbase, left an impression on him, but he was careful to note that it didn’t necessarily sway his commitment.
“It’s definitely different down there,” Lewis said. “The fans are loud, and you can feel the energy as soon as you walk into the stadium. They definitely love their football. It’s always good to see different atmospheres and experience the excitement of SEC football in different places.”
Lewis attended Florida’s game against a tough SEC opponent, giving him a front-row seat to the excitement that comes with a major conference matchup. While he enjoyed his time in The Swamp, Lewis emphasized that his commitment to Tennessee is solid, with his visit being more about enjoying the experience rather than reconsidering his future.
For many high school athletes, game-day visits serve as opportunities to compare different aspects of programs, from the coaching staff to the fanbase and facilities. Lewis appreciated how Florida’s staff treated him during his visit and valued the time he spent with the Gators’ coaching team. The conversations he had with Florida’s coaches offered him insights into their plans for the future and how they approach player development.
“Florida has a great program, and I can see why players enjoy being a part of it,” he said. “The coaches there are great, and they took the time to show me around and talk about what they’re building. It’s always good to hear different perspectives and learn from those visits.”
However, he quickly pivoted back to why he chose Tennessee in the first place. “Tennessee’s coaches have shown me how they plan to develop me and how I can fit into their system right away,” Lewis emphasized. “That’s a big reason why I committed to the Vols. Coach Heupel and his staff have been straightforward with me, and I feel like they really care about me as a player and as a person.”
### Solidifying His Commitment to Tennessee
Lewis’s visit to Florida served as a chance to explore, but it also reinforced the confidence he has in his decision to play for the Tennessee Volunteers. The culture and vision that head coach Josh Heupel has instilled in Knoxville remain central to Lewis’s commitment.
“I’ve been committed to Tennessee for a reason,” he said. “When I went down to Gainesville, it was a good visit, but it didn’t change how I feel about Tennessee. The vision that Coach Heupel has for the program and the way he wants to use me in their system is exactly what I’m looking for. I just feel like Knoxville is where I’m supposed to be.”
Lewis also spoke highly of the relationships he has developed with other members of Tennessee’s 2025 recruiting class, pointing out that they have built a strong bond and are eager to make an impact together. He emphasized that this sense of camaraderie among future teammates played a significant role in keeping him locked in with the Vols.
As Dylan Lewis continues to navigate the attention that comes with being a top recruit, his visit to Florida is a reminder that the recruitment process is often full of twists and turns. While other programs like Florida will continue to make their pitches, Lewis’s commitment to Tennessee appears as strong as ever.
Tennessee fans can take comfort in knowing that their 2025 recruit is looking forward to making an impact in Knoxville. With his athleticism and playmaking ability, Lewis is expected to be a key addition to the Vols’ future, bringing a competitive edge and skillset that align with Coach Heupel’s vision for the program.
“I’m just excited to get to work,” Lewis concluded. “Tennessee is where I want to be, and I can’t wait to show the fans what we’re building. There’s a lot to look forward to, and I’m ready to be a part of it.”
Lewis’s comments provide a sense of stability to the Vols’ 2025 class, highlighting that even amid the interest and visits to other programs, his heart remains with Tennessee. As he prepares for his senior year and looks ahead to the next chapter of his football career, Vols fans can rest assured that Dylan Lewis is firmly focused on helping the team achieve its goals in the years to come.