Whites Creek Star De’Aries Holland Emerges as 2028 Receiver to Watch With Early Offers From Tennessee and Vanderbilt
In the ever-evolving world of college football recruiting, it’s not unusual to hear about freshmen and sophomores picking up interest from major programs. But every once in a while, a prospect emerges so early and so obviously gifted that schools make the rare move to offer scholarships before the player has even begun high school. That’s exactly what has happened with De’Aries Holland, a rising eighth-grade wide receiver from Whites Creek, Tennessee. Holland has already received scholarship offers from in-state powers Tennessee and Vanderbilt, making him one of the youngest recruits in the country with legitimate SEC attention.
At just 13 years old, Holland has already turned heads with his size, speed, and natural ability as a wide receiver. Listed at 6-foot and still growing, he possesses a long frame, smooth stride, and soft hands that make him a nightmare for defensive backs at his level. Coaches at Whites Creek Middle School describe him as a mature athlete with a professional work ethic, laser focus, and a hunger to improve. Despite his age, Holland is already training with high school-level players and participating in elite camps where he’s more than holding his own.
What makes Holland’s early rise particularly unique is the way he’s handled the attention. For most kids, even the idea of talking to college coaches would be overwhelming. But Holland has approached the process with poise and humility beyond his years. He’s focused on his fundamentals, grades, and development—not the hype. Those close to him say he’s grounded by his family, faith, and a community that sees him as a symbol of what’s possible through discipline and hard work.
The offer from Tennessee came first, a surprise to many but not to those who’ve seen Holland play. Tennessee’s staff has made a concerted effort to identify elite in-state talent early and lock in long-term relationships. By extending an offer to Holland, they’re not just projecting potential—they’re betting that he’ll be a major piece of the Vols’ future offensive attack. Wide receivers coach Kelsey Pope, known for his sharp eye in talent evaluation, has been instrumental in identifying and recruiting Holland. The Vols envision him as a versatile pass-catcher who can play inside or outside, stretch the field vertically, and win contested catches against top defenders.
Vanderbilt wasn’t far behind, and their approach reflected a more academic pitch combined with the chance to stay close to home. Commodores head coach Clark Lea has emphasized building a fence around Nashville, and offering Holland early was a bold statement in that effort. For Vanderbilt, landing a player of Holland’s caliber would be a massive win on the local recruiting trail and a sign that the program is willing to go toe-to-toe with SEC rivals for top talent. Holland’s intelligence and quiet leadership style fit well with Vanderbilt’s culture, and the program hopes to build on that early connection.
While Holland’s college decision is obviously years away, the early offers represent more than just headlines—they’re a validation of the work he’s already put in and the rare talent he possesses. Recruiting analysts who’ve seen him play note that his route running is unusually refined for a player his age. He’s smooth in and out of breaks, understands leverage, and uses his body to shield defenders. He also has strong hands, rarely drops passes, and has shown the ability to high-point the football—traits usually seen in juniors or seniors.
Perhaps more importantly, Holland is developing in an era when young receivers are expected to do much more than catch passes. Coaches now demand wideouts who can block, understand defensive coverages, and contribute to special teams. Holland is already showing signs of being that type of all-around player. He studies film, asks detailed questions during position drills, and has shown willingness to line up in different spots to help his team win. He’s not a one-dimensional highlight reel—he’s a student of the game.
His work ethic off the field is equally impressive. Holland trains with private coaches year-round and has attended camps across the South, earning recognition not just for his talent but for how he carries himself. He’s quiet but confident, respectful but competitive. Those who work with him often note his eagerness to be coached—something that can’t be overstated in a world where early stardom can sometimes derail development.
Locally, Holland is becoming a bit of a phenomenon. At Whites Creek, his games draw bigger crowds than usual for middle school matchups, and he’s already getting attention from local media and regional recruiting outlets. But the buzz has not gone to his head. Coaches and family members keep him focused on school, growth, and continuing to earn everything that comes his way. Holland remains committed to being the hardest worker in the room, knowing that raw talent only gets you so far.
It’s also worth noting that while Tennessee and Vanderbilt are the first to offer, they certainly won’t be the last. Programs across the SEC, ACC, and Big Ten are now monitoring Holland’s progress, and many have already initiated contact with his coaches and camp trainers. As he enters high school, expect his recruitment to explode, especially if he stays healthy and continues to refine his game. Schools like Alabama, Georgia, Florida State, and LSU are all known to scout talent this early, and Holland fits the mold of the type of wideout those programs covet.
Recruiting at the middle school level is still relatively rare, and it’s not without its critics. Some believe it puts undue pressure on kids too early, while others see it as a natural extension of the modern college football landscape. In Holland’s case, those around him insist he’s built to handle it. He’s not chasing clout or social media followers—he’s chasing greatness, and he knows the only way to get there is to earn it every day.
For now, Holland is focused on finishing middle school strong, both academically and athletically. He’s looking forward to stepping onto the high school stage at Whites Creek High, where he’ll likely be a starter from Day One. His coaches are already planning how to use him in multiple roles—receiver, returner, and even in occasional wildcat formations. The expectations are high, but Holland has never shied away from pressure. He embraces it.
The early scholarship offers from Tennessee and Vanderbilt mark the beginning of what promises to be a fascinating journey. Both programs have taken a leap of faith, projecting a 13-year-old into a future where he might become a centerpiece of their offense. For Holland, it’s the beginning of a dream he’s worked for since he first picked up a football. But he knows dreams aren’t realized in headlines—they’re realized in practice reps, early morning workouts, and late-night film sessions.
Over the next four years, De’Aries Holland will grow physically, mentally, and emotionally. He’ll face new challenges, compete against better athletes, and be asked to lead older teammates. But if the first chapter of his story is any indication, he’s up to the task. The attention he’s receiving now may be unusual, but it’s not unwarranted. Holland has a chance to be special—not just as a football player, but as a role model for young athletes across Tennessee and beyond.
As the recruiting world continues to watch, one thing is certain: the name De’Aries Holland is one we’ll be hearing a lot over the next decade. Whether he ultimately chooses Tennessee, Vanderbilt, or another national powerhouse, his journey is just beginning. And for the football fans lucky enough to witness his rise from the very start, it’s already clear—this kid is built different.
