Spring practice gives Tennessee a prime window to host elite recruits, allowing them to get an up-close look at the program and how head coach Josh Heupel operates.
With that in mind, the Vols are set to welcome one of their top priorities, linebacker Kenneth Simon II, who will visit Knoxville on March 28 for another look at the program.
The in-state four-star prospect ranks among the top players in the 2027 class. According to recruiting rankings, he sits just outside the top 150 nationally and is considered one of Tennessee’s best overall prospects.
However, landing him won’t be easy, as powerhouse programs like Notre Dame, Alabama, Georgia, and Ole Miss are all aggressively pursuing the standout defender.
Simon’s connection to Tennessee runs deep. His father, Kenneth Simon, played for the Vols from 2002 to 2005 during the Phillip Fulmer era before being selected in the seventh round of the NFL Draft by Washington.
As a senior, he led Tennessee in tackles with 86, along with four tackles for loss and a sack, giving the Vols a potential edge in this recruitment.
What makes Simon such a highly sought-after prospect is his versatility. A former safety, he brings speed, coverage ability, and strong tackling skills to the linebacker position, along with a physical, hard-nosed playing style that fits perfectly in the SEC.
Tennessee also has plenty to pitch, from its strong linebacker development to the presence of respected defensive coordinator Jim Knowles.
While the Vols currently have just four commits in the 2027 class, that number is expected to climb as visits ramp up through the spring and summer.
