Tennessee signs 5-star QB Faizon Brandon

After committing to Tennessee 16 months ago, Greensboro (N.C.) Grimsley five-star quarterback Faizon Brandon has now signed with the Volunteers.

The 6-foot-3.5, 195-pounder hasn’t wavered one iota since his decision went public on Aug. 3, 2024. Long considered one of the top passers in the nation regardless of class, Brandon has helped build a top-10 class in Knoxville this cycle.

He’s now the No. 9 overall prospect and No. 4 QB in the 2026 cycle, according to the Rivals Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all major recruiting media companies. He’s also the top-ranked recruit in North Carolina.

Head coach Josh Heupel and the Vols were trending for Brandon for quite some time before he revealed his decision last summer. Alabama, NC State and LSU were also tabbed finalists before he came off the board, but it was always Tennessee for the dynamic signal-caller.

“I started feeling Tennessee a while ago,” Brandon told Rivals’ Chad Simmons. “They started recruiting me early, and the first impression they made on me was unlike any other. The staff recruited me hard from the get-go, they kept it steady with me and they pushed so hard to get me. All of that made an impact on why I picked them.”

Brandon’s tune hasn’t changed since. There’s been essentially zero drama surrounding his commitment — which is almost unheard of for a five-star QB in this era of recruiting. He and five-star wide receiver Tristen Keys headline the elite class headed to Rocky Top. They are two of seven top-100 prospects in the class for the Vols.

Despite missing a majority of his senior season, Brandon still heads to college as one of the best to come out of North Carolina in some time. He led the Whirlies to an undefeated season and state title as a junior in 2024. Brandon has over 100 touchdowns to his name at the high school level.

Faizon Brandon Scouting Summary

Rivals’ Scouting and Rankings Team writes this of Brandon as a prospect:

“Accurate passer with the physical traits to make him one of the top quarterback prospects in the 2026 cycle. Measured around 6-foot-3.5, 200 pounds with a 9.25-inch hand before his senior season. Has the frame to add more good weight. Flashes a live arm, particularly in the camp setting, easily generating zip on his passes. Piloted his team to a state title as a junior, completing 77.1% of his passes for 2,814 yards (13.1 YPA) and 35 touchdowns against 2 interceptions. A good athlete with solid speed, running for 625 yards and nine touchdowns as a junior. Does a good job limiting mistakes and avoids putting the ball in harm’s way. Has the skill set to stress defenses with his arm and legs.

…An effective distributor in operating the quick passing game. Also played basketball. Plays in a conservative high school offense that offers few downfield passing opportunities. Will benefit from honing his footwork and lower body mechanics once he works with college coaches. One of the youngest top quarterbacks in the cycle, turning 17 years old in June before his senior season. Will need to continue gaining more useful passing reps, but has early-round upside if developed properly.”