Josh Heupel and Tennessee Football Score Major Win with 2026 Commitment of Jowell Combay
Josh Heupel continues to make waves on the recruiting trail, and Tennessee football just secured another big victory. The Volunteers landed a commitment from three-star defensive back Jowell Combay, a key addition to their 2026 class.
Combay, a native of Marietta, Georgia, chose Tennessee over several top programs, including SEC rivals South Carolina and Georgia, as well as Wisconsin. Despite growing up in Bulldog territory, Combay opted to stay in SEC country but head to Knoxville, making his announcement via a commitment graphic created by On3 Sports’ Hayes Fawcett.
“I’m just getting started 🟠 #AGTG,” Combay wrote in his post, signaling the beginning of his journey on Rocky Top.
What makes Combay stand out is his rare size for a safety—6-foot-2, 195 pounds. That physical profile adds even more value to a player already ranked No. 46 at his position and No. 53 overall in Georgia by 247Sports.
In an interview with 247Sports’ Tennessee site, Combay highlighted what drew him to the Volunteers.
“They’ve been very consistent since they started recruiting me,” Combay said. “Coach ‘Nez and Coach Banks—it’s felt like a genuine relationship. They came to see me, and the bond we’ve built makes this the right fit, the perfect fit.”
He continued: “Being around those guys, it feels like everyone in the building is focused. Everyone’s about their business. That’s how I know it’s real. For me, it’s about the people. I could’ve gone in a different direction for a lot of reasons, but I believe in the people here.”
Tennessee offered Combay five months ago, and that early trust and continued connection ultimately won him over. He now joins a Volunteers 2026 class ranked No. 13 nationally and fifth in the SEC—a strong position for a program on the rise.
Tennessee is coming off a College Football Playoff appearance, falling to Ohio State 42-17, but their presence on the national stage has only strengthened their recruiting momentum. Under Heupel’s leadership, the Vols are showing they can compete with college football’s elite.
Securing Combay—especially over a powerhouse like Georgia—is another sign that Tennessee isn’t just building; they’re here to stay.
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