David Sanders Jr., a highly coveted 5-star offensive tackle, recently made a surprise visit to Ohio State, sparking significant intrigue and speculation about the future of his recruitment. Sanders, who has been committed to the University of Tennessee for quite some time, is widely considered one of the top offensive line prospects in the 2025 class. His visit to Ohio State, a powerhouse program with a history of producing NFL-caliber offensive linemen, has left many wondering whether his commitment to the Volunteers is as firm as previously thought.
A Strong Commitment to Tennessee… Until Now
Since announcing his commitment to Tennessee, Sanders Jr. has been a steady presence in the Volunteers’ recruiting class, helping to elevate the program’s status in the competitive SEC. His commitment was seen as a major win for head coach Josh Heupel and his staff, especially considering Sanders’ national profile and the fierce competition from other top-tier programs like Alabama, Georgia, and Ohio State. Sanders is regarded as one of the most talented and physically gifted offensive linemen in the 2025 cycle, with impressive size, quickness, and technique that make him a potential future first-round NFL Draft pick.
However, his surprise visit to Ohio State—less than a year before he is set to sign—has put a spotlight on his recruitment once again, raising questions about whether his commitment to Tennessee is truly set in stone. While a recruit visiting other schools after making a commitment is not uncommon, the timing of Sanders’ visit is particularly noteworthy. Ohio State, with its consistent success in developing top-tier talent, especially along the offensive line, presents a compelling alternative for any recruit.
Ohio State’s Strong Pull
Ohio State has long been one of the most prestigious programs in college football, and their track record of developing offensive linemen is second to none. Under head coach Ryan Day, the Buckeyes have consistently produced NFL-ready talent, and their offensive line development is a major selling point for top recruits like Sanders. The prospect of joining a program with such a proven record of success, coupled with the potential to play in the Big Ten and compete for national championships, could be a tempting opportunity for Sanders.
Additionally, Ohio State’s recent surge in recruiting—combined with the ongoing success of their program—makes them a legitimate threat to pull Sanders away from his Tennessee commitment. The Buckeyes have been active in recruiting elite talent from across the country, and Sanders’ visit is a clear signal that Ohio State is working hard to keep him in their sights.
Impact on Tennessee’s Recruiting Momentum
For Tennessee, Sanders Jr.’s commitment has been a cornerstone of their 2025 recruiting class. The Volunteers are currently building momentum under head coach Josh Heupel, who has turned the program into a competitive force in the SEC. Losing a player of Sanders’ caliber would undoubtedly be a setback for Tennessee, especially considering the growing importance of building a dominant offensive line in the SEC.
It remains to be seen whether Sanders’ visit to Ohio State is just a routine trip or a sign of serious reconsideration. However, Tennessee fans and coaches alike will be closely monitoring his recruitment in the coming months. If the visit leads to increased interest from Ohio State or other schools, the Volunteers may have to intensify their efforts to keep their prized commitment locked down.
Conclusion
David Sanders Jr.’s surprise visit to Ohio State has undoubtedly shaken up his recruitment, and it has raised questions about the strength of his commitment to Tennessee. While Sanders has not publicly indicated any intention to decommit, the visit to one of the most successful programs in the country suggests that his recruitment is far from over. Both Ohio State and Tennessee will continue to make their case to Sanders in the coming months, and it will be interesting to see whether he ultimately decides to stick with his original commitment or explore new opportunities. For now, all eyes will be on Sanders as he navigates this critical phase of his recruitment.