Tennessee strengthened its 2027 recruiting class on Saturday by securing a commitment from four-star tight end Malik Howard, one of the top overall prospects in the state and a major in-state recruiting victory for Josh Heupel and his coaching staff.
The Oak Ridge standout selected the Volunteers over an impressive list of national contenders, including Notre Dame, Oregon, Alabama, Texas A&M, Miami, and several other Power Four programs.
Notre Dame emerged as Tennessee’s primary challenger in the final stages of the recruitment, while Oregon and Alabama were also heavily involved throughout the process.
Measuring between 6-foot-3 and 6-foot-4 and weighing around 230 pounds, Howard is widely viewed as one of the premier tight end prospects in the 2027 class.
Recruiting services rank him among the nation’s top players at his position, while also placing him among Tennessee’s elite high school talents and inside the national top 200 overall prospects.
Howard’s on-field production has matched the hype. During his junior season at Oak Ridge, he hauled in 53 passes for 778 yards and 11 touchdowns, helping lead his team to a 9-2 record and a playoff appearance.
Over the past two seasons, he has totaled 85 receptions, 1,167 receiving yards, and 17 touchdowns, establishing himself as one of the most productive pass catchers in the region.
Tennessee made Howard a top priority early in the recruiting cycle, extending an offer in June 2024 and hosting him for numerous visits to Knoxville before his official visit this weekend.
Strong relationships with Heupel, offensive coordinator Joey Halzle, and the rest of the coaching staff ultimately helped the Volunteers win a highly competitive recruiting battle.
Known for his versatility, Howard possesses the ability to impact the game as both a receiver and blocker. His size, athleticism, exceptional catch radius, and ability to create mismatches against defenders have made him one of the most sought-after recruits in the country.
His commitment gives Tennessee its 10th pledge in the 2027 class and further strengthens a recruiting group that continues to gain momentum under Heupel’s leadership.
