In a significant development for Tennessee Volunteers football, 2025 three-star wide receiver Joakim Dodson has officially shut down his recruitment, reaffirming his commitment to the Vols.
This decision comes after Dodson received considerable interest from other major programs, most notably the Georgia Bulldogs, who had extended an offer and hosted him on a campus visit. However, following a recent visit to Knoxville, Dodson confirmed his unwavering dedication to Tennessee.
Dodson, who plays for the Baylor School in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is currently ranked as the No. 605 prospect in the 2025 class according to industry composite rankings. While he may not be among the top-tier receivers nationally, Dodson has shown tremendous upside and has steadily improved throughout his high school career, catching the attention of Tennessee’s coaching staff early in his development.
In interviews, Dodson emphasized the strength of his relationship with the Tennessee coaching staff as a major factor in his decision. “My relationships and trust in the staff were amazing, so it was a no-brainer,” Dodson said. “Every time I go up there, it just feels like home to me.” He added that the coaches have believed in him long before he became the player he is today, having tracked his growth since ninth grade.
Dodson’s firm commitment is a big win for head coach Josh Heupel and his staff. Recruiting in the SEC is a fierce, year-round competition, and keeping in-state talent away from conference rivals like Georgia sends a strong message about the direction of the Tennessee program. The Vols’ ability to retain a player like Dodson—who was actively being pursued by other high-profile programs—shows that their recruiting relationships and long-term vision are resonating with prospects.
His announcement brings stability to the Vols’ 2025 recruiting class, which continues to build momentum. Dodson joins a solid group of verbal commitments that includes five-star quarterback George MacIntyre, running back Justin Baker, tight end Jack VanDorselaer, defensive lineman Ethan Utley, and cornerbacks Dylan Lewis and Tyler Redmond. This group already ranks among the most promising classes in the SEC.
From a tactical standpoint, Dodson brings versatility to the wide receiver room. Known for his sharp route running, quick release, and ability to stretch the field, he is expected to develop further in Tennessee’s up-tempo, pass-heavy offense. His chemistry with quarterback commit George MacIntyre could become a key storyline for the Vols in the years ahead.
With his recruitment officially closed, Dodson can now focus on finishing his senior season strong while preparing for the next chapter of his football journey in Knoxville. For the Tennessee program, his decision reinforces the notion that the Volunteers are not only a contender on the field—but also in the competitive world of college football recruiting.
