Elite 2026 edge rusher hoping to visit the Tennessee Vols this fall

The Tennessee Vols could be getting a visit from a talented 2026 four-star edge rusher this fall.

2026 four-star edge Simote Katoanga told On3 this week that he hopes to visit Tennessee for a game this season.

Katoanga, 6-foot-5/240 lbs from San Juan Capistrano, CA, is rated by 247Sports as the No. 11 edge rusher in the nation and the No. 18 player in the state of California. He's also rated as the No. 104 overall player in the 2026 recruiting class.

Scouting report via 247Sports : Katoanga is an intriguing defensive line prospect with a very high ceiling. He played primarily as an edge rusher as a sophomore but has the frame to bulk up and move inside at the college level. He’s all of 6-5, 250 pounds with an 80” wingspan and we can see him packing on another 40 pounds or so with ease and not losing any of his natural athleticism. He’s a high motor player who’s relentless pursuing the football. He shows some pass rush ability coming off the edge or as a tackle and is physical in run support. He can take on blocks, hold his ground and still get a push up the field. Right now, he has shown more potential than on-field production but the traits are there and he looks set to have a breakout junior season in the fall.

It's still very early in Katoanga's recruitment. Tennessee, in fact, offered the talented edger rusher just a couple of weeks ago. This is a battle that will likely stretch into next spring/summer.

Katoanga told On3 that relationships and culture are some of the most important things he's looking for in a program.

"My relationship with the coaches is important to me, along with the people around them.....I also look at a program’s culture and people,” said Kataoanga . “Location doesn’t matter to me too much. It’s about wherever is the best fit for me to get to the next level.”

Tennessee currently has two players committed to its 2026 recruiting class.

Related: Rutgers HC Greg Schiano started the 2024 season off by angering former Tennessee Vols assistant coach