Tennessee announced two new commitments Saturday when linebacker Kenneth Simon Jr. and Q’Mari Hudson joined the program. Josh Heupel and his coaching staff continue building momentum on the recruiting trail.
The Volunteers may land another flip soon from wide receiver target Dayon Cooper. The South Pittsburg, Tennessee native wrapped up his official visit to Knoxville this week.
He’s currently committed to Florida State, but as a defensive player.
Florida State recruited the 6-foot, 180-pound athlete to play in the secondary. Cornerbacks coach Blue Adams led his recruitment and plans to coach him at that position. But Cooper has started showing interest in playing slot receiver at the next level.
“It has caused a wrinkle in his recruitment and commitment,” 247 Sports’ Chris Nee wrote.
Tennessee has pursued Cooper hard. It’s starting to look like a real possibility that he could flip.
“On3’s Chad Simmons reported this week that Tennessee has been ‘aggressively’ recruiting Cooper despite his commitment to Florida State, so it certainly sounds like they’re pushing hard,” A To Z Sports’ Zach Ragan wrote.
“Tennessee is recruiting Cooper to play wide receiver, which is reportedly his preferred position. I wouldn’t be shocked at all if Cooper is a Vol commit by the end of the month, if not sooner.”
Cooper had a strong visit to Knoxville this week. He continues prioritizing playing wide receiver and knows about Tennessee’s success at the position under Heupel. He was pictured wearing Tennessee gear during his visit.
South Pittsburg (Tenn.) standout ATH @DayonCooper2027 is on Rocky Top for his OV. The FSU commit is taking another look at Tennessee this weekend pic.twitter.com/NVZRBMmfNy
— Matt Ray (@matt_ray_) June 13, 2026
Cooper is a playmaker on the outside who could become a major threat for the Volunteers.
According to his X account, he runs a 4.5 40-yard dash. That’s exactly the type of speed that fits Heupel’s offense.
Cooper is rated as a three-star prospect. His speed makes him an intriguing target for programs across the country. Tennessee is pushing hard to make him part of it’s future recruiting class.
