The early signing period may have just wrapped for the class of 2026, but recruiting never sleeps-especially in the SEC. Tennessee is already shifting its focus to the 2027 cycle, and with quarterback Jake Merklinger hitting the transfer portal, the Vols are in the market for their next signal-caller of the future.
One name to keep a close eye on? Kamden Lopati.
Lopati, a 4-star quarterback out of Salt Lake City, Utah, is currently committed to Illinois, but Tennessee is making a strong push to flip him. And there’s real momentum building.
According to recent reports, the Vols have been working hard behind the scenes, and Lopati himself has acknowledged his interest in Tennessee, saying, *“With Tennessee being in the SEC, I’m definitely curious about them and want to learn more about their program.” *
That’s exactly the kind of quote that turns heads in Knoxville-and for good reason. Tennessee doesn’t yet have a quarterback committed in the 2027 class, so Lopati could be a foundational piece in what Josh Heupel is building.
Now, let’s talk about the player. Lopati is ranked as the No. 11 quarterback in the 2027 class and the No. 117 overall prospect by On3.
He’s got offers from a who’s who of Power Five programs-Arkansas, Arizona State, Oregon, Utah, Colorado, and more. He’s also been selected to the Under Armour All-American Game, which speaks volumes about how he’s viewed on the national stage.
What makes Lopati such a compelling fit for Tennessee is his arm talent. He’s a true dual-threat quarterback, but what really jumps off the tape is his ability to push the ball downfield.
Watching his Hudl highlights, you see a quarterback who’s not afraid to take shots-deep posts, go routes, tight-window throws. He trusts his arm, and that confidence shows up snap after snap.
In Heupel’s system, where vertical passing is a key component, that kind of skill set is more than just a bonus-it’s a necessity.
Of course, flipping a player like Lopati won’t be easy. Illinois has built a strong relationship with him, and Bret Bielema’s staff has clearly done the groundwork. But Tennessee’s pitch is compelling: SEC football, a quarterback-friendly offense, and a chance to develop under a coach with a proven track record of grooming explosive playmakers at the position.
The timing adds another layer of intrigue. Tennessee and Illinois are set to face off in the Music City Bowl in just a couple of weeks, and while that game won’t directly impact Lopati’s decision, the recruiting battle behind the scenes might be just as intense as what happens on the field. Some fans have even joked that the winner of the bowl game should get his commitment-a lighthearted take, but it underscores how closely these two programs are now intertwined in this recruitment.
Looking ahead, if Tennessee can land Lopati to pair with 2026 5-star quarterback Faizon Brandon, the Vols’ quarterback room would be loaded with talent and upside. That kind of depth breeds competition-and competition at QB1 is exactly what you want in the SEC.
So while the holidays are approaching, Tennessee fans might have one more gift to unwrap. Keep an eye on this one-because “Flipmas” could be coming to Rocky Top.