Tennessee continues to build momentum on the recruiting trail, this time making moves toward its 2027 signing class. Vols linebackers coach William Inge was courtside Friday night to check in on one of the program’s top defensive targets-four-star linebacker AJ Randle-during his high school basketball game.
Randle, a 6-foot-3, 210-pound standout from Garner High School in North Carolina, is quickly becoming one of the more sought-after defenders in the 2027 cycle. According to 247Sports, he’s ranked as the No. 24 linebacker in the class and the No. 12 overall player in the state of North Carolina. And he’s not just a football player-his athleticism on the basketball court is another glimpse into the versatility he brings to the field.
Tennessee extended an offer to Randle back on October 13, 2025, and the interest appears mutual. He made an unofficial visit to Knoxville on November 1 for the Vols’ matchup against Oklahoma, giving him a firsthand look at the game-day atmosphere and defensive system he could one day be a part of.
The competition for Randle is fierce. Duke was the first to offer back in June 2024, but since then, his offer sheet has exploded with Power Four programs lining up. Mississippi State, Michigan State, Georgia Tech, Ohio State, NC State, SMU, South Carolina, Texas A&M, Alabama, Nebraska, North Carolina, Baylor, Virginia Tech, Florida State, Ole Miss, Penn State, Virginia, Missouri, Maryland, Texas, Wake Forest, and Florida have all thrown their hats in the ring.
It’s clear Randle has options-plenty of them. But Tennessee’s early and consistent presence in his recruitment, highlighted by Inge’s recent visit, shows they’re serious about making him a key piece of their future defense.
As it stands, Tennessee’s 2027 class already features four early commitments: linebacker JP Peace, cornerback Kamauri Whitfield, offensive tackle Princeton Uwaifo, and defensive lineman Kadin Fife. Adding a player like Randle would only elevate what’s shaping up to be a well-rounded and promising group for the Vols.
Recruiting this far out is always a bit of a long game, but Tennessee is clearly putting in the work to stay ahead of the curve-and visits like Inge’s are the kind of groundwork that can pay off down the line.