Grandson of Tennessee Legend Phillip Fulmer Commits to Volunteers, Continuing the Family Legacy in Knoxville With Passionate Pride

In a move that blends bloodlines with tradition, Tennessee football is welcoming home one of its own—again. The Volunteers have secured a commitment from none other than the grandson of former head coach and athletic director Phillip Fulmer, a name that carries generational weight on Rocky Top. The announcement not only sent waves through the fan base but also struck a nostalgic chord across the Volunteer faithful, who see this pledge as the continuation of a cherished legacy rooted in pride, grit, and orange-and-white glory.

The young man carrying that iconic surname? That’s tight end Brooks Jones, a 2026 recruit out of Christian Academy of Knoxville (CAK), who has now officially pledged his future to the Tennessee Volunteers. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 220 pounds, Jones may not carry the same sideline presence as his grandfather did during Tennessee’s 1998 national title run, but his decision to join the program under head coach Josh Heupel carries a weight of its own. More than a football decision, it’s a family statement—a symbolic homecoming for a name forever etched in UT lore.

Speaking shortly after his commitment, Jones didn’t shy away from the emotional pull that brought him to this moment. “Tennessee is home,” he said. “It’s always been home. This program means more to me than people can understand. I grew up around it. I watched my grandfather pour everything into it, and now it’s my turn to do the same.”

Recruiting insiders had long pegged Tennessee as the frontrunner in Jones’ recruitment, though other programs had made a push. Despite a growing list of regional offers and increasing national attention following a breakout junior season, Jones never strayed far from his heart. His deep-rooted connection to Knoxville, the family ties, and a love for the Power T made the decision an easy one—at least emotionally.

The Vols’ coaching staff had made Jones a clear priority early on, not just out of respect for his lineage, but because of his talent. Heupel and tight ends coach Alec Abeln have both praised Jones’ versatility, his physical development, and his leadership on and off the field. His blend of size and hands makes him a prototypical fit for Tennessee’s high-powered offense, which thrives on multi-dimensional skill sets from its tight ends.

“Brooks is his own player,” one staff member noted. “He’s not trying to be Coach Fulmer. He’s trying to be the best version of himself, and we love what he brings to this program—on the field and as a person.”

That distinction matters to Jones, too. While he fully embraces his heritage, he’s determined to carve his own path at Tennessee. “I’m proud of who my grandfather is, and what he accomplished here,” Jones said. “But I’m not here just because of him. I’ve worked for this, I’ve earned it, and I’m coming to Tennessee to win and help this team however I can.”

Phillip Fulmer, now retired from official duties but still deeply respected and revered within the Volunteer community, expressed quiet pride in his grandson’s decision. In a statement shared with local media, Fulmer said, “Brooks has always been a competitor. He’s always had the drive to do things the right way. I’m proud of the man he’s becoming and proud to see him wear that Tennessee orange. Our family’s connection to this university runs deep, and this is a very special moment for all of us.”

Indeed, the Fulmer name evokes more than just wins and championships. It brings memories of leadership, resilience, and championship culture. From guiding the Vols to an undefeated season and national title in 1998, to mentoring young men through decades of program-building, Phillip Fulmer’s legacy is rich with integrity and toughness. For many fans, seeing a Fulmer back in the fold offers more than symbolism—it offers hope.

For Tennessee’s current roster and future recruiting classes, Jones’ commitment also sends a message. The family culture that Heupel has preached since arriving in Knoxville continues to gain traction. The program has turned a corner in terms of national competitiveness, and with each new class, the Vols seem more intent on blending top-tier talent with high-character leadership.

That’s exactly the mold Jones fits. Coaches at CAK speak glowingly of his leadership and work ethic. “You’d never know who his grandfather is by the way he carries himself,” CAK head coach Travis Mozingo said. “Brooks just grinds. He doesn’t expect anything to be handed to him. He puts in the work every day and brings his teammates along with him.”

Jones’ development has accelerated over the past year. He posted impressive numbers in his junior season, becoming a key offensive weapon for CAK. His ability to create separation on routes, his sure hands, and his blocking technique have all drawn attention from scouts. In addition, his basketball background has translated into strong footwork and agility, making him a matchup nightmare for smaller defenders and linebackers alike.

Still, despite growing buzz about his athletic potential, Jones’ heart never wavered from Knoxville. “I’ve dreamed of running through the T since I was a kid,” he said with a grin. “This is where I’m supposed to be.”

The commitment also gives Tennessee another key piece in the 2026 class, which is shaping up to be one of the more intriguing in recent memory. Heupel’s staff has been aggressive in identifying in-state talent and players with deep-rooted connections to the program. Jones checks both boxes—and then some.

For Tennessee fans, his pledge represents something larger than football. It’s a continuation of a story that began decades ago—a legacy carried on through sweat, determination, and now, another Fulmer putting on the orange jersey. Social media lit up with well-wishes and excitement after Jones made his decision public. Former players, alumni, and fans alike shared a unified message: Welcome home.

As for Jones, he knows the weight of the name on his back—but he’s ready for it. “I’m not going to let anyone down,” he said. “This means too much. I’m going to give everything I’ve got, just like my granddad did. I’m honored to be a Vol.”

With his commitment locked in and his future set in Knoxville, Brooks Jones will now focus on finishing his high school career strong, continuing his physical development, and preparing to step into the college spotlight. If his path mirrors even a fraction of his grandfather’s success, then Tennessee just landed more than a recruit—they rekindled a flame that has long defined Volunteer pride.

And while the game has changed since the elder Fulmer roamed the sidelines with a headset and championship grit, the foundation remains the same: family, tradition, and an unrelenting belief in the power of Tennessee football.

For Brooks Jones, that’s not just a motto. It’s a legacy he’s ready to live.