In a stunning turn of events on the recruiting trail, 2025 linebacker Brenden Anes has announced that he is flipping his college commitment from the University of Wisconsin to the University of Tennessee. The announcement sent shockwaves through the college football recruiting world as Tennessee continues to build a formidable class under head coach Josh Heupel.
Anes, a 6-foot-3, 225-pound linebacker out of Gurnee, Illinois, is widely regarded as one of the top defensive prospects in the 2025 cycle. Known for his explosive athleticism, sideline-to-sideline range, and high football IQ, Anes had been committed to Wisconsin since June. His initial pledge to the Badgers was seen as a significant win for Wisconsin head coach Luke Fickell, who has emphasized securing top defensive talent to maintain the program’s physical identity in the Big Ten.
However, the allure of the SEC and Tennessee’s rapidly ascending program proved too much for Anes to resist. In his announcement, Anes praised Tennessee’s coaching staff, player development, and vision for the future.
Why Tennessee?
In a statement shared on social media, Anes wrote:
“After much prayer, reflection, and conversations with my family, I have decided to decommit from the University of Wisconsin and commit to the University of Tennessee. I want to thank Coach Fickell and the Wisconsin staff for believing in me, but Tennessee feels like home. Coach Heupel and Coach [Tim] Banks have a clear plan for how I fit into their defense, and I’m excited to play in the SEC against the best competition in the country.”
Tennessee’s defensive coordinator Tim Banks played a pivotal role in flipping Anes’ commitment. Banks, who has built a reputation as a master recruiter and developer of defensive talent, reportedly had been in constant communication with Anes over the past several weeks. The Vols’ aggressive, attacking style on defense is a perfect match for Anes’ skill set, which thrives in systems that prioritize speed and versatility.
Immediate Impact on Tennessee’s Recruiting Class
Anes’ commitment is a massive boost for Tennessee’s 2025 recruiting class, which now ranks among the top 10 nationally. Anes joins a group that already includes several blue-chip prospects, further solidifying Tennessee’s standing as a destination for elite recruits.
Anes is expected to be a cornerstone of the Vols’ linebacker corps in the years to come. His ability to disrupt plays in the backfield, cover tight ends and running backs in space, and lead a defense with his vocal presence makes him a unique asset.
For Tennessee fans, this flip underscores the program’s growing clout in recruiting. Competing against traditional Big Ten powers like Wisconsin and winning a high-profile recruitment battle signals that Tennessee is positioning itself as a consistent contender in the SEC.
What’s Next for Wisconsin?
For Wisconsin, Anes’ departure leaves a noticeable gap in their 2025 class. The Badgers must now refocus their efforts on other linebacker targets to fill the void left by Anes. Coach Fickell and his staff have already proven their ability to secure quality talent, but losing a player of Anes’ caliber is a tough blow.
Still, Wisconsin fans can take solace in the program’s track record of developing under-the-radar players into NFL prospects. Fickell’s ability to attract and develop defensive talent will be tested in the wake of Anes’ flip.
Conclusion
The decision by Brenden Anes to flip his commitment from Wisconsin to Tennessee marks a significant milestone in the 2025 recruiting cycle. It highlights Tennessee’s emergence as a powerhouse on the recruiting trail and underscores the SEC’s gravitational pull for elite high school talent.
For Anes, the choice reflects his desire to challenge himself at the highest level of college football. For Tennessee, it’s another step toward building a championship-caliber roster. And for Wisconsin, it’s a reminder of the ever-changing nature of modern recruiting.
As the dust settles, one thing is clear: Brenden Anes is a name to watch in the coming years, and Tennessee fans have every reason to be excited about what he brings to the orange and white.