4-Star DE Tyson Bacon Commits to Tennessee Vols
Knoxville, TN – The University of Tennessee Vols football program received a major boost to their 2025 recruiting class with the commitment of highly sought-after defensive end Tyson Bacon. The 4-star recruit from Memphis, Tennessee, announced his decision to join the Vols on Friday, sending waves of excitement through Tennessee fans and the coaching staff alike.
Bacon, a standout at Memphis’ Southwind High School, has been one of the top defensive linemen in the country for the 2025 recruiting cycle. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing in at 250 pounds, he’s been a dominant force on the defensive front, racking up impressive stats that include 15 sacks and 30 tackles for loss during his junior season. Bacon’s ability to disrupt offenses with his quickness, strength, and motor has made him a key target for several top college programs, but ultimately, the Vols won out in the recruitment battle.
The commitment comes at a crucial time for Tennessee, which is looking to strengthen its defensive line and continue its rise in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Bacon’s decision to stay home and play for his state’s flagship university marks a significant win for head coach Josh Heupel and the Vols’ coaching staff.
Bacon, who has been a Tennessee fan for years, cited the program’s recent resurgence and the relationship he built with the coaching staff as major factors in his decision. “It just feels like home,” Bacon said during his announcement. “I’ve been to a few games, met the coaches, and everything about Tennessee just felt right. Coach Heupel and the defensive staff really took the time to get to know me, and I could see myself growing here, both on and off the field.”
His commitment is also a testament to the Vols’ rising profile under Heupel. Since taking over the program, Heupel has instilled an uptempo, high-energy culture that has reinvigorated Tennessee football. The Vols finished the 2024 season with a respectable record, showcasing both offensive and defensive improvements. With Heupel at the helm, the program has been able to attract a number of high-caliber recruits, and adding Bacon to the fold only strengthens that momentum.
Tennessee’s defensive line coach, Rodney Garner, played a pivotal role in Bacon’s decision. Garner, who has a long track record of developing NFL-caliber talent, has been praised for his ability to mold elite defensive players. Bacon was particularly drawn to Garner’s coaching style and his emphasis on developing players into complete, well-rounded athletes.
“I’ve seen how Coach Garner works with his guys, and I love the way he focuses on technique while pushing players to reach their full potential,” Bacon said. “He’s the kind of coach who will push me to be the best I can be, and I’m ready for that challenge.”
Bacon’s commitment adds to a growing list of top-tier recruits in Tennessee’s 2025 class, and his presence on the defensive line should help immediately. His combination of size, athleticism, and versatility will make him a difficult matchup for opposing offenses in the SEC.
As Bacon’s senior season approaches, many are already speculating on the impact he could have in the future for Tennessee. With his commitment locked in, all eyes will now turn to his development and eventual role on the Vols’ defense, where he will look to make an immediate impact in the SEC.
With the 2025 class taking shape, Coach Heupel and his staff continue to look to build a championship-contending program, and the addition of a player like Tyson Bacon signals that Tennessee is
on the right track.
