In a major boost to the Tennessee Volunteers’ 2025 recruiting class, highly touted safety KJ McClain, a standout from New Jersey, officially announced his commitment to the Vols on Tuesday, just 22 hours ago. McClain, considered one of the top defensive back prospects in the nation, cited a strong relationship with the coaching staff and a belief in the program’s direction under head coach Josh Heupel as key reasons for choosing Rocky Top.
The 6-foot, 185-pound defensive back has drawn praise from recruiting analysts across the country for his elite range, football IQ, and versatility. Able to cover deep zones, play in the box, and even match up against slot receivers, McClain brings a modern, all-around skill set to the position—something Tennessee’s defensive coaches have been emphasizing in their scheme.
“I really connected with Coach Heupel and Coach Banks,” McClain told On3 Sports. “They showed me how I could be used all over the field, not just as a traditional safety. I love the energy in Knoxville and how the staff develops their players both on and off the field.”
McClain visited several other major programs during his recruitment, including Penn State, Michigan, and South Carolina, but his visit to Tennessee left a lasting impression. He noted the campus atmosphere, the emphasis on player development, and the trajectory of the Vols’ program as decisive factors.
With McClain’s commitment, Tennessee continues to build a defensive class loaded with speed and intelligence. His addition is expected to bring depth and competition to a secondary that is steadily improving under the current regime.
Tennessee fans have reason to celebrate, as McClain’s commitment signals a win in one of the most competitive recruiting regions on the East Coast. The Vols now hold a top-15 national recruiting class for 2025, with several more top targets still in play.
As the buzz builds around this latest commitment, one thing is clear: KJ McClain isn’t just joining a team—he’s stepping into a legacy.
