East Robertson 4-Star EDGE Zach Groves Commits to Tennessee Volunteers, Bringing Elite Athleticism and Defensive Firepower to Knoxville

The Tennessee Volunteers just landed a major addition to their 2026 recruiting class with the commitment of East Robertson’s standout four-star edge rusher Zach Groves. The electric defender from Cross Plains, Tennessee, made his announcement on Thursday afternoon, sending waves through the recruiting world and energizing Vols fans across the nation. His decision to stay in-state and don the iconic orange and white could prove to be a program-defining moment for head coach Josh Heupel and defensive coordinator Tim Banks.

Groves, a 6-foot-5, 235-pound game-wrecker with elite speed off the edge, chose the Volunteers over offers from SEC heavyweights including Alabama, Georgia, and LSU, as well as national contenders like Ohio State, Michigan, and USC. His final decision came after an extensive recruiting process that saw him take multiple unofficial visits to Knoxville, where he built a strong relationship with the coaching staff and current players. That trust, along with Tennessee’s aggressive defensive scheme and commitment to player development, ultimately sealed the deal.

During his junior campaign at East Robertson High School, Groves put together a jaw-dropping stat line that left scouts buzzing and offensive coordinators scrambling. He recorded 65 total tackles, including 21 tackles for loss, 16 quarterback hurries, and four sacks. But Groves wasn’t just a menace in the backfield—he also made plays in coverage and on special teams, returning an interception for a touchdown and scooping up a fumble for another score. His ability to impact the game in multiple phases has earned him comparisons to some of the SEC’s top edge defenders of the past decade.

Groves’ commitment marks a huge win on the recruiting trail for Tennessee, which continues to establish itself as a rising force in the SEC and a national recruiting powerhouse. He becomes the highest-rated defensive player in the Vols’ 2026 class and could be the centerpiece of what’s shaping up to be one of the most talented defensive groups the program has signed in years. His combination of athleticism, motor, and production makes him a Day 1 contributor candidate, even at a position loaded with depth and competition.

What sets Groves apart from other elite edge prospects is his blend of raw physical tools and football IQ. His burst off the line is elite—his first step routinely leaves offensive tackles lunging to recover, while his ability to bend around the corner without losing speed is rare for a player of his size. He’s also shown the ability to convert speed to power and bull rush effectively, demonstrating a complete pass-rushing arsenal that will only expand with SEC-level coaching.

In addition to his pass-rushing prowess, Groves has earned praise for his ability to diagnose plays and chase down ball carriers from the backside. He’s equally comfortable setting the edge against the run, dropping into short zone coverage, or lining up in multiple spots across the front seven. This versatility makes him a perfect fit for Tennessee’s defensive system, which emphasizes chaos, speed, and adaptability.

Groves’ arrival couldn’t come at a better time for the Volunteers, who are looking to bolster their pass rush for future seasons. While Tennessee has made strides defensively in recent years under Tim Banks, bringing in blue-chip talent like Groves represents the next step in building a defense that can consistently challenge the likes of Georgia and Alabama for SEC supremacy. The commitment also signals to other top defensive targets that Tennessee is serious about building a dominant unit—one capable of matching its high-powered offense.

The ripple effects of Groves’ commitment could also be felt throughout the state. As one of the top overall prospects in Tennessee, his decision to stay home sends a strong message to other elite in-state recruits: Knoxville is a place where top talent can thrive, compete for championships, and make it to the next level. That kind of momentum can help build a fence around the state, ensuring that future stars continue to wear orange and represent the Volunteer State.

For Groves, the choice to stay close to home was as much about family and legacy as it was football. He’s spoken openly about wanting to be a role model for his younger siblings and to represent East Robertson on a national stage. Playing in Neyland Stadium in front of 100,000 screaming fans, just a few hours from where he grew up, gives him the chance to live out that dream. His commitment is already being celebrated in his hometown, where he’s become a local hero and source of pride for the community.

Recruiting insiders believe Groves has only scratched the surface of his potential. With another year of high school ball left, scouts expect his numbers to continue to rise—and his national profile to grow alongside them. He’s currently ranked among the top 10 edge defenders in the country and a top-100 overall prospect in the 2026 class, but there’s a growing belief that he could climb even higher as he adds strength, refines his technique, and showcases his talent on the summer camp circuit.

While his recruitment is technically still open until signing day, Groves has expressed a strong desire to shut things down early and focus on his development, his senior season, and preparing to make an immediate impact in Knoxville. He plans to enroll early at Tennessee, giving him a full offseason to acclimate to college life, learn the playbook, and compete in spring practice. That early transition could be key in helping him carve out a role as a true freshman in 2026.

Groves’ commitment also underscores the growing success of Tennessee’s recruiting infrastructure. The program has invested heavily in facilities, coaching, and NIL opportunities, all of which have played a role in attracting elite prospects like Groves. The culture Heupel has built—centered on accountability, development, and winning—continues to resonate with top-tier recruits who want to compete at the highest level and prepare for the NFL.

For fans, the excitement around Groves’ decision is about more than just stars or rankings—it’s about what he represents. He’s a homegrown star, a hard-nosed competitor, and the kind of player who can help elevate Tennessee back into the national spotlight. In many ways, his commitment is symbolic of the program’s trajectory under Heupel: on the rise, hungry for more, and ready to prove they belong among college football’s elite.

In the short term, look for Groves to serve as a recruiter himself, helping the Vols chase other high-profile targets in the 2026 cycle. He’s already well-connected within the 7-on-7 and camp circuits and has the charisma and leadership qualities that often draw other players to join forces. If his early social media posts are any indication, he’s fully bought into Tennessee’s vision and eager to help build something special in Knoxville.

As Tennessee continues to piece together its 2026 class, the addition of Zach Groves provides both a foundation and a spark. He’s the kind of player who can anchor a defense, shift a game, and inspire a locker room. And now, he’s a Volunteer.

🍊 Welcome to Rocky Top, Zach Groves.