BREAKING: 4-Star EDGE Zach Groves Commits to Tennessee, per Austin Price

In a major recruiting win for Tennessee football, four-star EDGE rusher Zach Groves has officially committed to the Volunteers, according to a report from recruiting insider Austin Price. The highly touted pass rusher from Hoover High School (AL) announced his decision late Tuesday afternoon, choosing Tennessee over finalists Georgia, Alabama, and Auburn.

Groves, ranked as the No. 8 EDGE in the 2025 class by 247Sports Composite and the No. 92 overall prospect nationally, becomes the crown jewel of Tennessee’s current recruiting class. The 6-foot-4, 235-pound defensive standout is known for his explosive first step, relentless motor, and ability to disrupt plays in the backfield.

“After lots of prayer, conversations with my family, and careful consideration, I’m proud to announce that I am 100% committed to the University of Tennessee,” Groves shared via his social media accounts. “Rocky Top is home!”

The commitment was first reported by Austin Price of Volquest, who noted that Groves’ relationship with Tennessee defensive line coach Rodney Garner played a pivotal role in the decision. “Tennessee’s consistent communication and the vision they laid out for Zach as a key piece in their defense really stood out,” Price said.

Groves has been on Tennessee’s radar since early in his junior year and visited Knoxville multiple times during the recruiting process. He attended the Vols’ spring game and was reportedly blown away by the energy inside Neyland Stadium and the opportunity to play early in his college career.

His pledge gives Tennessee its eighth commitment of the 2025 class and its first at the EDGE position — a key area of need for head coach Josh Heupel and his defensive staff. The Vols’ defense has improved steadily over the past two seasons under defensive coordinator Tim Banks, but they’ve lacked a consistently dominant pass rusher off the edge. Groves could be that difference-maker.

“Zach brings the kind of intensity and athleticism we look for,” one Tennessee coach reportedly said during Groves’ official visit. “He has SEC speed, and his ceiling is extremely high. He’s going to be a big part of what we’re building.”

Groves recorded 17 sacks and 24 tackles for loss during his junior season at Hoover, cementing his status as one of the top defensive players in the Southeast. His combination of speed, strength, and instincts has drawn comparisons to former Tennessee standout and current NFL EDGE Derek Barnett.

With Groves now on board, Tennessee is expected to gain momentum on the recruiting trail. The Vols are still pursuing several other top defensive prospects, including five-star linebacker Micah Davis and fellow EDGE target Terrell Jones.