Tennessee picked up a commitment from a versatile prospect in the 2026 class on Tuesday afternoon.
Surrounded by his friends and family at Jackson North Side High School in Jackson, TN, three-star prospect Javonte Smith announced his commitment to Tennessee over Missouri, Arkansas, and West Virginia.
The two-way athlete has seen action on both sides of the ball and even as a kick returner. The six-foot, 175-pound player totaled 1,027 receiving yards, 15 total touchdowns, five interceptions, three pick-sixes, and two kickoff return touchdowns during his junior season at North Side. He was also named the Regional Offensive Player of the Year.
247Sports lists Smith as the No. 80 cornerback and No. 37 player from Tennessee in the class, while On3Sports has him tagged as the No. 127 receiver and the No. 27 player from the Volunteer State in the 2026 cycle.
Various reports, along with Tennessee DB coach Willie Martinez being listed as the primary recruiter, suggest that the two-way prospect will have a role in the secondary on the defensive side of the ball. From there, Smith will be able to use his speed, quickness, and elusiveness to try to slow down opposing offenses’ passing game. Smith can also use his background in basketball and baseball to help him gain an edge in whatever position he ends up in.
Smith makes Tennessee’s 18th commitment of the class, which is now listed at No. 15 in the nation according to 247.
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Check out some of the talent that Javonte Smith is bringing with him to Rocky Top in Tennessee’s 2026 recruiting class:
