Tennessee Vols predicted to miss out on 4-star in-state recruit

The No. 9 player in the state of Tennessee is set to announce his commitment this week, but he's not expected to land with the Tennessee Vols.

2025 four-star safety CJ Jimcoily will announce his commitment on August 8. He'll be choosing between Alabama, LSU, Stanford, and Tennessee.

And according to 247Sports' Tom Loy, it's LSU that has the momentum heading into Jimcoily's announcement.

"Early on, most people assumed he would be a Volunteer and stay in state," noted Loy .

"But leading up to his decision, my 247Sports Crystal Ball is on the LSU Tigers," continued Loy. "I think he's a perfect fit in that defense. I think that staff has out-recruited everybody and made him a priority. I like LSU to get that one done."

Loy also pointed out that Stanford has done well in Jimcoily's recruitment.

Jimcoily, 6-foot-3/205 lbs from Nashville, TN, is rated in 247Sports' composite rankings as the No. 32 safety in the nation.

Tennessee's done a tremendous job on the recruiting trail in recent months. Sometimes you just don't get a talented in-state kid. It happens to every program in the country.

The Vols, by the way, still have a shot at landing a top five 2025 recruiting class -- especially if they land a commitment from 2025 five-star offensive lineman David Sanders Jr later this month.

Related: Vols insider's comments on Nico Iamaleava during fall camp should get Tennessee fans hyped for the 2024 season