In-state prospect makes a significant commitment to the Tennessee Vols over several prestigious programs.
On Thursday afternoon, the Tennessee Vols signed a significant football recruit—both practically and figuratively.
Nashville defensive lineman Ethan Utley, a class of 2025 prospect, chose the Vols over other high-profile offers. The Nashville Ensworth School defensive lineman, who stands 6’3.5″ and weighs 275 pounds, chose the Vols over Texas, Michigan, Oklahoma, and Syracuse. According to reports, the decision was made between Tennessee and Texas, but in the end, Utley and his mother’s bond with Tennessee defensive line coach Rodney Garner prevailed.
In addition, he had offers from Penn State, Colorado, LSU, Texas A&M, Auburn, Oklahoma, Notre Dame, Oregon, and Georgia. According to On3 Sports’ aggregate industry ranking, he is ranked as the #4 player in the state of Tennessee for 2025 and as the #16 defensive lineman overall.
Utley is the kind of player who could fit that pattern. Improving on both sides of the line of scrimmage is something that has been clear as far as what Tennessee needs to accomplish to contend with the best teams in the nation. While he could bulk up and play more in the interior, he has the strength and quickness to play defensive end.
Utley joins quarterback George MacIntyre and wide out Joakim Dodson as the Vols’ third in-state and seventh overall picks for the 2025 recruiting class.
