PHOTO: Josh Heupel’s Tennessee misspells 5-star OT David Sanders Jr. during his visit

By Aman Sharma

Modified Jun 16, 2024 14:50 GMT

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The Tennessee Volunteers, led by coach Josh Heupel, recently hosted 5-star offensive tackle David Sanders Jr. for an official visit in Knoxville. However, the visit took an unfortunate turn when Sanders' name was incorrectly spelled as "Davis Sanders Jr." on the seat reservation card. This mistake has led to the Vols being trolled online, which could potentially impact their recruitment efforts.

David Sanders Jr., ranked as the No. 2 overall player in the class of 2025 according to On3 Industry Rankings, has been an important target for the Volunteers. He has maintained a close relationship with the coaching staff, having visited Tennessee multiple times since eighth grade.

Hailing from Charlotte, North Carolina, Sanders has been a prominent figure in high school football since his freshman year. Besides Tennessee, his recruitment journey includes official visits to Clemson, Georgia, Nebraska and South Carolina. Scheduled visits to Alabama, Ohio State, and another to Tennessee remain on his calendar. Sanders’ high regard for Tennessee, Alabama and Georgia positions these SEC programs as frontrunners in his recruitment.

His decision holds considerable weight for Tennessee, which has invested substantial effort in his recruitment. The Vols are looking to build a formidable 2025 recruiting class, which already includes notable commits such as George MacIntyre (QB), Justin Baker (RB), Radarious Jackson (WR), Joakim Dodson (WR), Jack Van Dorselaer (TE), Antoni Kade Ogumoro (OL), Ethan Utley (DL), Dylan Lewis (CB), Tyler Redmond (CB) and Sidney Walton (S).

David Sanders Jr. evaluates key factors in his college decision

David Sanders Jr., the top offensive tackle prospect for the 2025 class, is well-versed in the recruiting process. Recently, he made a significant official visit to the University of Georgia. When asked about his decision-making criteria, Sanders emphasized the importance of personal fit over facilities or coaching reputation.

"Everyone is pretty much at the same level," he shared with DawgNation. "You have to choose where you want to live for the next three to four years, not just based on emotion, but where you feel the happiest."

David Sanders Jr. revealed that official visits only account for about five percent of his decision-making process. Instead, his focus lies on several critical factors: academics, social environment, team dynamics, program trajectory and NFL development potential.

These elements make up 25 percent of his decision formula, while the remaining 75 percent is based on his connections with the coaching and support staff.

"The personal connection with the head coach, position coach, strength and conditioning coach, and nutrition staff is crucial," Sanders said. "Do you feel comfortable going into that locker room every day and just being happy?"

As a junior, David Sanders Jr. anchored his team's offensive line, which amassed 3,758 passing yards and an average of 8.6 yards per rush. Despite playing with a torn labrum, he excelled with a 93% blocking grade and recorded 11 pancake blocks. His defensive contributions included 24 tackles, four sacks and 32 quarterback hurries.

His outstanding performance earned him the 2023 Offensive Player of the Year award from the Charlotte Independent School Athletic Association.