5-star Tennessee signee David Sanders Jr. shares 2-word reaction to the Volunteers' latest 2026 class commit

Five-star Tennessee signee David Sanders Jr. expressed his excitement on Instagram after the Volunteers secured their latest 2026 class commitment, three-star wide receiver Tyran Evans.

Sanders shared an Instagram story featuring Evans' commitment announcement on Sunday and captioned it:

"NC ---> Knox."

Image via Ig@clt_bigdave

The message underscores a strong North Carolina connection and the growing momentum of Tennessee’s recruiting efforts as they bolster their future roster with standout talent.

Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 180 pounds, Evans had a remarkable junior season at Hough High School in Cornelius, North Carolina. He caught 36 passes for 980 yards and 14 touchdowns, averaging an impressive 27.2 yards per catch.

His performance played a crucial role in Hough’s 12-2 record and deep playoff run, which ended against eventual state champions, Grimsley, in the fourth round of the N.C. 4A state playoffs.

The talented receiver began his high school journey at Chambers High, where he recorded 13 receptions for 219 yards and two touchdowns as a sophomore before transferring to Hough.

Tennessee officially extended their offer to Evans on Nov. 5, and just two months later, he announced his commitment. In the process, he turned down offers from powerhouse programs like Florida State, Miami, NC State, South Carolina and Florida.

Evans cited Tennessee’s offense, the quarterback talent, and his growing relationships with coach Josh Heupel’s staff, particularly future position coach Kelsey Pope, as pivotal factors in his decision.

“The offense, quarterbacks they have committed,” Evans said. “The relationship."

With Evans on board, Tennessee strengthens its third-place standing in the On3 Industry Rankings for the 2026 class.

David Sanders Jr. locked in Tennessee decision following last trip to Ohio State

David Sanders Jr., a five-star offensive tackle and one of the top prospects in the 2025 class, solidified his commitment to Tennessee football despite taking one last visit to Ohio State. Standing at 6-foot-6 and 270 pounds, Sanders ranks as the No. 5 overall prospect, according to the 247Sports Composite.

Sanders, who plays for Providence Day School in Charlotte, North Carolina, committed to Tennessee on August 17. He stated that he never felt pressured to explore other programs but wanted to ensure his decision was final by revisiting Ohio State.

"I felt like the decision to go to Ohio State was a big one for me and my family," Sanders stated on the 'Paul Finebaum Show.' "They were very close when it was time to go to Tennessee, when I picked them in August.

"Ohio State was right behind them. I felt it was only right to give them one more shot just to make sure I had made my decision and this was firm on where I wanted to be."

His trip to Ohio State occurred on Nov. 23, during the Buckeyes' 38-15 victory over Indiana, less than two weeks before the early signing period. Ultimately, Sanders signed with Tennessee on Dec. 21, marking a decisive step in his journey.