The Tennessee Volunteers continue their recruiting hot streak, landing one of the top safeties in the 2026 class. Jowell Combay, a hard-hitting 6’2″, 195-pound defensive back from Marietta, Georgia, has officially committed to the Vols — choosing Rocky Top over strong pushes from South Carolina, Wisconsin, and Georgia.
The announcement comes as a huge momentum boost for Josh Heupel’s staff, who continue to assert Tennessee as a force in the Southeast and beyond.
🔶 Why Tennessee?
In Combay’s own words, the Vols’ authenticity set them apart:
“What put Tennessee on top was how they kept it real from the beginning,” Combay told Rivals. “They never sugarcoated anything — it was all love, but also all truth. That stood out to me.”
The rising star has praised Tennessee’s culture, player development, and the staff’s consistent communication. He’s particularly excited to work with defensive coordinator Tim Banks, who has helped elevate Tennessee’s secondary in recent years.
🛡️ Scouting the Prospect
- Name: Jowell Combay
- Position: Safety
- Height/Weight: 6’2″, 195 lbs
- School: Marietta (GA) High
- Class: 2026
- Recruiting Buzz: 4-star (Rivals, 247Sports)
- Notable Offers: Georgia, Wisconsin, South Carolina, Michigan, Florida
Combay is known for his instincts, tackling in space, and ball-hawking ability. He can cover sideline to sideline and brings a physical presence that commands attention in the backfield. His frame and explosiveness suggest he could see early playing time in the SEC.
🔥 What This Means for the Vols
This commitment keeps Tennessee firmly in the spotlight as a recruiting powerhouse, especially in the 2026 cycle. It also signals that prospects are buying into Heupel’s long-term vision, both on the field and in the locker room.
With Combay on board, the Vols are not only getting a top-tier defender — they’re getting a culture fit and future leader in their defensive backfield.
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