Congratulations and welcome: Tennessee to land 2026 4-star LB Brayden Rouse🍊who rejected Ohio and vows to stay with ..

The Tennessee Volunteers continue their rise in recruiting prominence under head coach Josh Heupel, and the program appears to be closing in on a significant addition for its 2026 class: 4-star linebacker Brayden Rouse. A standout prospect hailing from Georgia, Rouse has garnered attention from programs across the country, but Tennessee’s relentless pursuit and recent momentum may give the Volunteers the edge to secure his commitment.

With his combination of physicality, athleticism, and football IQ, Rouse fits the mold of a prototypical SEC linebacker. Landing the 6-foot-2, 215-pound playmaker would not only bolster Tennessee’s defensive future but also serve as a statement about the Volunteers’ ability to compete with recruiting powerhouses like Alabama, Georgia, and Clem.

Brayden Rouse has already solidified himself as one of the most versatile linebackers in the 2026 recruiting class. Rated as a 4-star prospect and ranked among the top 10 linebackers nationally, Rouse has displayed an ability to impact games in multiple ways. Whether it’s stopping the run, dropping back in pass coverage, or applying pressure on the quarterback, he is a dynamic presence on the field.

Playing for a high school powerhouse in Georgia, Rouse consistently faces top-tier competition, which has helped him develop into a polished and well-rounded player. His ability to diagnose plays quickly and deliver hard-hitting tackles has drawn comparisons to some of the best linebackers to come out of the SEC in recent years.

It’s no surprise that Rouse has amassed a long list of offers from elite programs, including Alabama, Georgia, LSU, and Ohio State. However, Tennessee’s staff has made him a top priority, and their persistence is paying off.

Tennessee’s appeal to Rouse is multifaceted. The Volunteers have been steadily improving under Josh Heupel, with a high-octane offense and a defense that is becoming more aggressive and disciplined under defensive coordinator Tim Banks. The chance to play in the SEC—a conference renowned for its defensive talent—is an opportunity Rouse is likely considering heavily.

Additionally, Tennessee’s recent recruiting success speaks volumes about the program’s trajectory. The Vols have secured commitments from several blue-chip prospects in the 2025 and 2026 classes, signaling to recruits like Rouse that Knoxville is the place to be for players who want to compete for championships.

Another factor is the coaching staff’s personal approach. Tennessee has built strong relationships with Rouse and his family, emphasizing how he would fit into the defense and highlighting their ability to develop NFL-caliber linebackers. The sense of community and culture in Knoxville has resonated with Rouse, making Tennessee an ideal landing spot.

If Tennessee is able to secure Rouse’s commitment, it would be a significant boost for their 2026 recruiting class. Linebacker is a position of need for the Volunteers, and adding a talent like Rouse would go a long way in solidifying the defense for the future. His ability to play sideline-to-sideline and serve as a leader on the field would make him an invaluable addition.

Moreover, landing Rouse would send a message to other elite recruits in the 2026 class. It would show that Tennessee is not just a program on the rise but one that is ready to compete with the nation’s best for top-tier talent.

While no official announcement has been made, all signs point to Tennessee being in a strong position to land Rouse. The linebacker is expected to visit Knoxville again in the coming months, and the Vols will undoubtedly roll out the red carpet to ensure he feels at home.

With their recent recruiting momentum and an upward trajectory as a program, Tennessee is making a compelling case for Rouse. Should he commit, it would not only strengthen the Vols’ defense but also serve as a reminder that Tennessee is back to competing with the big dogs of college football.

As the 2026 recruiting cycle unfolds, Brayden Rouse could be the next star to join the Tennessee Volunteers, donning the orange and white to continue the program’s resurgence.