Tennessee football is just seven practices into its spring slate, but a freshman is already turning heads. Brayden Rouse, a four-star linebacker recruit who is early enrolled, has caught the eyes of his teammates and coaches.
Xavier Gilliam, a Penn State defensive tackle transfer, has his locker next to Rouse. While the pair play different positions, Gilliam has been impressed by the young backer. When asked about who has stood out so far during his time in Knoxville, he gave a shoutout to Rouse.
“I like my locker buddy Brayden Rouse,” Gilliam said. “He’s a freshman. I really like how he plays. He plays linebacker. It’s good to see him be out there. He’s physical, he’s a physical guy. He’s a very smart football player, too, with him being a freshman and being a young guy and also him early enrolling. Really promising things for him in the future.”
flying around to the football 🏎️@BraydenRouse8 | #GBO 🍊 pic.twitter.com/XVipOK5PMo
— Tennessee Football (@Vol_Football) March 27, 2026
More From RTI: Son of Tennessee Football Legendary Running Back Visits Vols as a Recruit
Tennessee linebackers coach William Inge is also pleased with what he’s seen from his freshmen, Rouse and TJ White. As far as Rouse, it’s his speed that stands out the most.
Inge noted that for the majority of practices, Rouse has recorded the fastest speed among the linebackers in the room. While Arion Carter nurses an injury, that tops the likes of Edwin Spillman, Jadon Perlotte, Amare Campbell, Jeremiah Telander and other experienced players.
“Rouse is exactly what we expected as well from a speed and quickness scenario, him being able to play in space,” Inge said. “He has been great. I think in our room, he set the fastest mile an hour for all the practices except for yesterday. He’s been awesome, as well.”
Tennessee and Rouse are off on Friday after a scrimmage on Thursday, but will be back on the practice field on Saturday morning. The Vols are working toward the annual spring Orange & White Game on April 11, which will conclude the string of practices.
