Intense! The Tennessee Vols in an all out war with the Georgia Bulldogs for a 2025 four-star recruit who previously played alongside the current UT quarterback.
The Tennessee Vols are currently in a competitive battle against the Georgia Bulldogs for a 2025 four-star wide receiver, who happens to have been high school teammates with a current UT quarterback.
Thomas Blackshear, the 2025 four-star wide receiver, has identified the Vols and the Bulldogs as his top two choices. However, the Florida Gators are also intensifying their efforts to sway the talented wide receiver towards their program.
Measuring at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing 197 pounds, Blackshear hails from Savannah, GA. He holds a ranking of No. 47 among wide receivers nationwide and No. 39 in the state of Georgia according to 247Sports’ composite rankings.
According to Rivals.com, while Georgia and Tennessee have long appeared to be the primary contenders for Blackshear, a third program has recently emerged. Initially considering Florida State as part of his top three, Blackshear now finds the Florida Gators vying for his commitment, particularly after their recent surge in his recruitment.
Although Blackshear has acknowledged Georgia and Tennessee as his leading options, Florida’s newfound momentum adds an intriguing element to his recruitment process, which is anticipated to conclude in late August or September. Official visits to both the Bulldogs and the Volunteers have already been scheduled.
Interestingly, Blackshear shares a history with Tennessee quarterback Jake Merklinger, having been teammates at Calvary Day last season. Merklinger, a former four-star recruit, committed to the Vols during the 2024 recruiting cycle.
Despite not being ranked as a top recruit by recruiting services, Blackshear’s significant interest from Florida, Georgia, and Tennessee indicates that he possesses greater potential than his current rating suggests. His decision is expected to be announced in August or September.
