Breaking News: Tennessee Makes The Final Cut For Four Star DL Tico Crittendon
Tennessee’s recruiting momentum continues to build as the Volunteers have officially made the final cut for coveted four-star defensive lineman Tico Crittendon. The highly rated prospect announced his narrowed list of top schools this week, and the Vols are still firmly in contention as the battle for his commitment heats up.
Crittendon, a standout in the 2025 class, is ranked among the top defensive linemen nationally. Known for his powerful frame, explosive first step, and disruptive presence in the trenches, he’s drawn offers from nearly every major program in the country. After months of evaluating his options, the Georgia native has trimmed his list to a select group — and Tennessee made the cut.
“I’m thankful for all the schools that recruited me, but at this point, I’ve decided to focus on a few that I feel really understand me as a player and a person,” Crittendon said in a statement. “Tennessee is definitely one of them.”
The news is a significant boost for Josh Heupel and his staff, who have made defensive line talent a major priority in their 2025 recruiting campaign. The Vols have consistently been in contact with Crittendon, hosting him for visits and maintaining a strong relationship with his family and coaches.
Tennessee’s pitch has centered around immediate opportunity, a rising program with SEC championship aspirations, and a proven track record of player development. Crittendon has previously spoken positively about his experiences in Knoxville, particularly his interactions with the coaching staff and the energy he felt on campus.
“The vibe there is different,” Crittendon said in a recent interview. “You can tell they’re building something real. Coach Heupel and Coach Garner have been straightforward with me the whole time. That means a lot.”
Making the final group for a player of Crittendon’s caliber puts Tennessee in a strong position, but the competition is far from over. Other top programs still in the running include Georgia, Alabama, and LSU—each bringing national pedigree and deep recruiting networks to the table.
Recruiting analysts believe Tennessee’s persistence and early investment in building a relationship with Crittendon are paying off. While no official commitment timeline has been confirmed, it’s expected he will take official visits this summer and make a decision before the start of his senior season.
“This is going to come down to who makes him feel most at home,” one recruiting expert noted. “Tennessee is absolutely in the mix and could very well land him if things continue to trend their way.”
For Tennessee fans, this update offers renewed optimism about the direction of the program. Landing Crittendon would not only boost their 2025 class rankings but also send a strong message to other elite defensive prospects that Knoxville is a destination for top-tier talent.
