The University of Tennessee’s football team, the Volunteers, has landed a significant commitment from Faizon Brandon, the nation’s No. 1 recruit in the 2026 class. Brandon, a 5-star quarterback from Grimsley High School in Greensboro, North Carolina, chose Tennessee over prominent programs like LSU, Alabama, Auburn, and in-state N.C. State Wolfpack.
About Faizon Brandon
Position: Quarterback
Height: 6-foot-3
Rating: 5-star recruit
Ranking: No. 1 player in the 2026 recruiting class
Skills: Brandon possesses a rare blend of pocket-passer size and dual-threat athleticism, along with a high-powered arm. He’s considered a potential game-breaker at the next level ¹.
The Commitment
Brandon announced his commitment on August 3, 2024, during a ceremony where he donned a Tennessee Volunteers hat. Although there’s some discrepancy about the other positions considered in some reports mentioning an athlete playing edge rusher and tight end, confirmed reports identify Faizon Brandon as the committed quarterback. The decision marks a significant win for Coach Josh Heupel and his staff, who have been dominating the 2025 class and assembling the eighth-best recruiting class for the cycle ¹.
Why Tennessee?
According to Brandon, he chose Tennessee because he believes in what Coach Heupel is building, and he wants to be part of bringing championships back to Knoxville. The Volunteers’ consistent communication, family atmosphere, and vision for his future likely played a role in his decision.
Impact on Tennessee Football
This commitment signals that the Volunteers are leading in the race for elite talent. With Brandon joining another top quarterback recruit, George MacIntyre, Tennessee’s future looks promising. The Volunteers have turned their program around under Coach Heupel, posting a 20-6 record over the last two seasons, including back-to-back bowl wins.
What to Expect
While it’ll take time for Brandon to be ready to start for an SEC program, once he does, he could become one of the biggest stars in college football. His athleticism, arm strength, and leadership skills make him an exciting prospect ¹.
NBA legend Jason Kidd has joined Everton’s ownership group
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NBA legend Jason Kidd has joined the ownership group of Premier League soccer club Everton. Here’s what you need to know about this exciting development:
Who is Jason Kidd?
Jason Kidd is a Hall of Fame point guard and current Dallas Mavericks coach. He won an NBA title with the Mavericks in 2011 and was a two-time Olympic gold medalist with the US national team in 2000 and 2008. Kidd has also had previous coaching stints with the Brooklyn Nets and Milwaukee Bucks ¹.
Why did Kidd join Everton’s ownership group?
Kidd expressed his enthusiasm for joining Everton, citing the club’s bright future and new stadium on the horizon. He stated, “I’m honored to be joining Everton’s ownership at such an important moment… With a new stadium on the horizon and a bright future ahead, it’s a great moment to come on board”.
What does Kidd bring to Everton?
Everton’s executive chairman Marc Watts believes Kidd’s “knowledge and winning mentality will be an incredible resource” for the club. Watts added that Kidd is a respected leader and household name who will bring a deeper understanding of high performance to the team. Kidd’s expertise is expected to help Everton build a brighter future ².
What’s next for Everton?
Everton recently secured its status in the Premier League for another year and is set to move into a new state-of-the-art stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock for the start of next season. The club has been an ever-present in England’s top soccer league since 1954 and is looking to end its trophy drought, which has lasted since 1995 ¹.
Other notable investors in English soccer
Kidd isn’t the first American sports personality to invest in English soccer. Other notable examples include ¹:
Tom Brady: NFL great Tom Brady became a minority owner of Birmingham City in 2023.
LeBron James: Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James bought a small stake in Liverpool in 2011.
Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas: PGA Tour golfers Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas are investors in 49ers Enterprises, which owns Leeds.
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