Chattanooga’s Own Jamyan Theodore Commits to Tennessee, Giving Volunteers a Major In-State Win on Defensive Side of Ball
The University of Tennessee continues to solidify its dominance on the recruiting trail with the commitment of Jamyan Theodore, a highly sought-after edge rusher from Chattanooga, Tennessee. Theodore’s decision to stay in-state and join the Volunteers is not only a massive addition to the Vols’ 2025 recruiting class, but also a statement that Josh Heupel and his staff are successfully building a wall around the state when it comes to elite talent.
Theodore, a four-star recruit and one of the top defensive prospects in Tennessee, announced his commitment after a months-long recruitment process that saw strong pushes from SEC rivals Georgia, Alabama, and South Carolina. But in the end, the chance to represent his home state and play in front of family and friends at Neyland Stadium proved too powerful to resist.
For Tennessee, securing Theodore’s pledge provides another cornerstone piece in a defensive class loaded with athleticism, versatility, and potential. For Theodore, the decision marks the next chapter in a journey that has captured the attention of coaches and fans alike throughout the Southeast.
Jamyan Theodore has been on the radar of major programs since his breakout sophomore season at Chattanooga’s Baylor School. Measuring in at 6-foot-4 and 240 pounds, Theodore combines an NFL-ready frame with top-tier explosiveness and relentless effort. He’s the kind of athlete who dominates both on the edge and occasionally as a stand-up linebacker—giving defensive coordinators incredible flexibility.
Over the past two seasons, Theodore terrorized opposing quarterbacks, notching 18 sacks, 34 tackles for loss, and five forced fumbles. His performance not only earned him All-State honors but also made him one of the top-ranked players in the Volunteer State and a national name among edge rushers.
Scouts have raved about his first-step quickness, long arms, and high motor. He’s shown the ability to win with speed off the edge, counter inside with power, and hold the point of attack against the run. In a class that’s loaded with offensive skill, Theodore’s presence on defense makes him stand out even more.
His commitment is a massive win for Tennessee not just because of his talent, but because he represents the type of in-state anchor programs need to win championships.
Theodore had no shortage of suitors. Georgia pushed hard and hosted him multiple times. Alabama’s tradition of producing elite edge defenders intrigued him, and South Carolina made a late surge to get him on campus. However, throughout the process, Tennessee remained consistent, authentic, and focused on building a relationship—not just recruiting a player.
Tennessee’s defensive coordinator Tim Banks and defensive line coach Rodney Garner spearheaded the effort. Garner, in particular, built a strong bond with Theodore and his family. Known for developing NFL-caliber talent at Auburn, Georgia, and now Tennessee, Garner made it clear that Theodore would be a priority and a centerpiece of the defensive front.
The program’s recent success developing edge rushers like Byron Young—who was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams—and Joshua Josephs, who is emerging as a leader on defense, also played a major role in swaying Theodore. The coaching staff painted a clear picture of how he would be used within the system, and how he could earn early playing time with his physical tools and mental makeup.
On his official visit to Knoxville, Theodore connected with current players, experienced the electric atmosphere surrounding Tennessee football, and got a deeper understanding of the program’s direction under Josh Heupel.
“Tennessee felt like home from the start,” Theodore said after his commitment. “Coach Garner kept it real with me, and the staff showed me how I could come in, work, and make an impact. There’s something special building in Knoxville, and I want to be a part of it.”
With Theodore in the fold, Tennessee’s 2025 class takes a significant leap forward, especially on the defensive side of the ball. Already featuring commitments from four-star linebacker Brandon Simmons and defensive back Darius Blackwell, the addition of a top-tier pass rusher adds balance and credibility.
The Vols now boast one of the most athletic defensive classes in the country, with players who not only possess elite traits but also bring a competitive edge. Theodore’s commitment is also likely to influence other undecided in-state prospects. Players take notice when top talent chooses to stay home, and Theodore’s decision sends a powerful message to recruits across Tennessee.
It also demonstrates the continued recruiting evolution under Josh Heupel. While known for his offensive mind, Heupel has placed a growing emphasis on stacking elite defenders through the high school ranks and the portal. Landing players like Theodore shows that Tennessee can compete with the nation’s best for high-impact defensive prospects.
Theodore’s skill set aligns perfectly with Tennessee’s defensive philosophy. The Vols emphasize speed, disruption, and versatility in their front seven. In Banks’ scheme, edge players are asked to rush the passer, set the edge in the run game, and occasionally drop into coverage—all of which Theodore has done at a high level in high school.
His blend of size and explosiveness makes him a natural fit as a weak-side defensive end, but his experience in multiple fronts means he could move around depending on down and distance. Tennessee loves to rotate players along the line to keep fresh legs on the field, and Theodore’s motor ensures he’ll be productive when his number is called.
He’s also a weight room warrior—an attribute that will accelerate his college readiness. With another year of high school development and then an offseason in Tennessee’s strength and conditioning program, Theodore could be physically ready to compete for snaps as a true freshman in 2025.
One of the more emotional aspects of Theodore’s commitment is his deep connection to the state and his desire to represent Chattanooga at the next level. For a city known for producing athletes across multiple sports, Theodore could be the next great story to emerge from the Scenic City.
He’s been a role model to younger athletes in his community and has spoken about the importance of giving back and setting a good example. His success is seen as a win not just for Tennessee football, but for Chattanooga as a whole.
The opportunity to stay in-state and compete at a high level was something Theodore didn’t take for granted. He mentioned the pride of putting on the orange and white and hearing Rocky Top at Neyland Stadium as a motivating factor in his decision.
“You grow up in Tennessee, and it means something different,” Theodore said. “It’s not just football—it’s family. It’s history. And now, I get to be a part of that.”
With his commitment secured, Theodore can now focus on his senior season, where he aims to lead Baylor School to a state championship and continue honing his craft before arriving in Knoxville. He plans to enroll early in January 2025, which will give him a full spring to learn the playbook and compete for a role on the Vols’ defensive front.
His goals are clear: earn early playing time, make an immediate impact, and help bring Tennessee back to SEC championship contention.
Given his blend of talent, work ethic, and loyalty to his home state, there’s every reason to believe Jamyan Theodore will become a household name in Knoxville in the near future.
Tennessee’s 2025 class just added a player with star potential—and it came from their own backyard. For fans of the Big Orange, that’s as good as it gets.
