“Boom” “best decision”: CFB fans rejoice over four-star WR Travis Smith Jr.'s commitment to Tennessee

By Aman Sharma

Modified Jul 15, 2024 13:26 GMT

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Four-star wide receiver Travis Smith Jr. from Westlake High School in Atlanta has committed to the Tennessee Volunteers, a decision he announced during a ceremony at his school. The 6-foot-4, 200-pound Smith selected Tennessee over top contenders Alabama, Georgia and Auburn, following official visits to all four programs last month.

Smith's journey with Tennessee began nearly nine months ago when he first visited the campus. He immediately felt a strong connection, which ultimately influenced his final decision.

Fans expressed their enthusiasm over Smith's commitment on social media. One fan on X wrote:

"The best decision young man."

"Josh Heupel snagging himself another weapon," another posted.

Here is how others reacted to his commitment to the Vols:

"The best of decisions young man!!!" a fan quipped.

"Welcome to Rocky Top!!!" a fan stated.

Initially, Georgia seemed to be leading the race for Smith, with Alabama making significant strides early in the summer. Auburn was also a serious contender, but Tennessee’s consistent efforts proved decisive. Smith reflected on his choice, telling On3:

“It was one of the hardest decisions I have ever made. At the end of the day, I felt Tennessee fit what I was looking for the best. From offensive productivity to the opportunity to shine in the offense to the scheme and just being in the best position to succeed.”

Travis Smith acknowledged that, ultimately, he felt Tennessee was the right fit.

“From start to finish, Tennessee was the same. They recruited me hard from the time they offered me. I built some great relationships with the coaches at Tennessee," he said.

Tennessee offered Travis Smith a spot on Sept. 4, during his junior season. Since then, the Vols have clarified that Smith is a priority for their 2025 recruiting class. Smith said:

“In the spring, they pushed the gas and they showed me how important I was to them. The relationships, their plan for me, and how they recruited me made an impact on my decision.”

Travis Smith Jr. commits to Tennessee, citing strong ties and exciting offense

Travis Smith Jr. committed to the Tennessee Volunteers, citing a strong connection with the coaching staff and players as pivotal in his decision. Smith emphasized his strong bond with Tennessee WR Kelsey Pope and the active role coach Josh Heupel played in his recruitment.

“It is like a family up there,” Smith shared with On3. “The coaches know me and my family well. They’ve been really engaged with me, and I feel comfortable with them.”

Ranked as the No. 113 overall prospect and No. 16 wide receiver in the 2025 class by 247Sports Composite, Smith praised Tennessee’s dynamic offense.

“Their offense is electric,” Smith told 247 Sports. “They have shown I can be a key force as a receiver making big plays.”

Travis Smith's relationship with the Vols staff, including senior offensive analyst Max Thurmond and Heupel, has been integral to his decision.

“They communicate with me regularly and have made it clear I’m their top priority as a receiver,” Smith said. “Everybody in the building seems like they know me. It’s always a great visit when I go up there.”

The Vols' 2025 recruiting class is shaping up impressively, currently ranked 10th nationally and fourth in the SEC. Key commitments include four-star quarterback George MacIntyre, four-star tight end Jack Van Dorselaer, three-star running back Justin Baker and four-star defensive lineman Ethan Utley.