SIGNIFICANT REPORTS: 5-star Tennessee commit gives Josh Heupel great news

This is a huge relief for the Vols.

Last week, Tennessee offensive tackle commit Gabriel Osenda got major recognition when 247Sports elevated him to 5-star status. Naturally, that sparked some speculation that the highly-rated lineman might reopen his recruitment.

There was talk that other programs might make a push for him and that Osenda could consider taking additional visits. However, he quickly shut that down. In a recent conversation with reporter Sam Spiegelman, Osenda made it clear he’s fully committed to the Vols and won’t be visiting any other schools. The only trips he plans on taking will be to Knoxville.

Tennessee 5-star commit Gabriel Osenda will not take anymore visit🔥pic.twitter.com/Gqe3XBwtfH

— Rocky Top Now (@rockytopnow) May 18, 2025

5-star Tennessee commit Gabriel Osenda made it clear he won’t take other visits

That’s exactly the kind of commitment Tennessee fans want to see. With a confident smile, Gabriel Osenda reaffirmed his loyalty to the Volunteers, firmly stating he’s all in with UT and won’t be swayed. He committed to Tennessee earlier this year over other top contenders like Florida, South Carolina, and Minnesota.

The towering 6-foot-7, 330-pound tackle drew 28 offers during his recruitment, but after standing out at Baylor School in Chattanooga, he felt a strong pull to stay in-state for college. Originally a 4-star recruit, Osenda recently earned a coveted fifth star.

Now ranked as the No. 4 offensive tackle and the No. 19 overall prospect in the 2026 class, Osenda is a cornerstone piece for Tennessee’s future. He’s expected to be a key protector for 5-star quarterback Faizon Brandon—the No. 1 player in the nation—once both are in Knoxville.

With Osenda and Brandon leading the charge, Tennessee’s 2026 class is off to a tremendous start. And with the potential addition of 5-star running back Savion Hiter still in play, Josh Heupel and his staff have every reason to be optimistic. For now, they can take comfort in knowing Osenda is rock-solid in his decision to wear orange and white.