One of Tennessee’s top in-state talents is nearing a major decision that could shape the trajectory of a top-tier college football program. Kesean Bowman, a five-star wide receiver from Brentwood Academy, has circled February 10 as the date he’ll announce where he’s taking his talents next. And make no mistake - the Vols are firmly in the hunt.
Bowman, a former Oregon commit, is one of the most electric playmakers in the Class of 2027. Ranked No. 32 nationally and the No. 6 wide receiver in the 247Sports Composite, he’s also the No. 2 junior in Tennessee. Simply put, he’s the kind of game-changing athlete who can tilt the field from Day 1.
The 6-foot-plus deep threat made headlines earlier this fall when he reopened his recruitment on September 19, just weeks after committing to Oregon. That decision came on the heels of two visits to Knoxville - one while still pledged to the Ducks for the Vols’ matchup against Georgia on September 13, and another just a week later when Tennessee hosted UAB.
Those visits weren’t just casual stops. They were part of a growing relationship between Bowman and a Vols coaching staff that’s made him a top priority.
Bowman told 247Sports that he’s weighing several top programs - including Alabama, Miami, Oregon, Tennessee, and Vanderbilt - as he closes in on his decision. But his connection to Tennessee runs deeper than just geography. A Chattanooga native who previously attended Knoxville Catholic, Bowman has visited Tennessee more than any other school, and he’s been vocal about how well he sees himself fitting into Josh Heupel’s high-octane offense.
“I’d say a deep threat fits well in their offense,” Bowman said back in October. “And I’d say I’m a deep threat, so I feel like I would fit pretty good in Tennessee’s offense.”
That’s not just talk. Tennessee’s vertical passing attack under Heupel has been a showcase for receivers with Bowman’s skill set - long, fast, and fearless down the field.
And Bowman has taken notice, especially of Chris Brazzell II, the Vols wideout who turned heads this season before declaring for the NFL Draft. Brazzell’s breakout year didn’t go unnoticed.
“It definitely plays a big role in that,” Bowman said of Brazzell’s success. For a young receiver with NFL aspirations, seeing a player thrive in a similar role is more than encouraging - it’s proof of concept.
Bowman has also built a strong rapport with Tennessee’s staff, particularly wide receivers coach Kelsey Pope and Heupel himself. According to Bowman, the communication has been consistent and personal - not just about football, but about life. That kind of connection matters in today’s recruiting landscape, where relationships often carry as much weight as scheme fit.
“When I talk to him, it’s just not all about football,” Bowman said of Heupel. “(He will) call and check up on me sometimes. It’s just, like, a genuine relationship.”
Bowman has made it clear that development is at the heart of his decision. He’s not just looking for a place to play - he’s looking for the right environment to become the best version of himself.
“I’d say (I am) looking into where I’m going to get developed the most, where I can become the best receiver I can become,” he said. “And my end goal is to become the best receiver of all time, so whichever university is going to help me toward that goal is the university I’ll be choosing.”
That’s the mindset of a player with big dreams and the talent to chase them. And with his decision just weeks away, programs across the country - especially the Vols - are watching closely.
If Tennessee can land Bowman, it won’t just be a recruiting win. It’ll be a statement.