"Feel good about the Vols": Recruiting analyst provides the latest update on five-star WR Tristan Keys' potential commitment to Tennessee

Five-star wide receiver Tristan Keys is one of the most dynamic players in the country. The standout from Hattiesburg High School in Mississippi is leaning toward Tennessee for his potential commitment, and Tom Loy of 247Sports weighed in on the discussion on Sunday, saying:

"That's where (Tennessee) my crystal ball is at. I feel good about the Vols. I'm not saying he's made a silent commitment or anything like that. But he's been up there a couple times and loves every trip to Knoxville."

Tristan Keys has a close relationship with the No. 1 quarterback in the country and Tennessee commit, Faizon Brandon. The duo reportedly connected during the Future 50 event, sparking discussions about teaming up at the collegiate level.

"He's connected really well with Faizon Brandon," Loy said. "They definitely got along and chopped it up about potentially playing together at the next level."

Tennessee holds the edge, but Texas A&M, Alabama and Oregon remain heavily involved in Keys' recruitment. Loy believes a decision could come early this offseason.

If Tennessee secures Keys, he will join a 2026 recruiting class that already ranks No. 1 in the Southeastern Conference and No. 3 nationally. The class features five other commits besides Faizon Brandon.

Tristan Keys caps off a phenomenal junior season

Tristan Keys finished his junior season with 58 receptions for 1,275 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns. He averaged 21.2 yards per catch and tallied 1,378 all-purpose yards.

This performance earned Keys multiple accolades, as he claimed first-team All-State honors and was named MVP of Team Region 3-6A. His team won the Region 3-6A and South State championships, ultimately finishing as state runner-up. Despite his season culminating just short of a state title, Keys’ contributions were phenomenal in his school's deep playoff run.

"I think there is so much to like about that kid," Tom Loy said. "He is a day one kind of impact guy once he gets college."

Tristan Keys' exceptional speed, route-running and playmaking ability make him a “day-one impact” player, as Loy described. It’s no surprise that he continues to soar in recruiting rankings. He is the No. 1 wide receiver in the 2026 class, the No. 1 recruit in Mississippi and the No. 4 prospect in the nation, as per 247Sports.