Knoxville, TN (WOKI / WVLT) – The Tennessee Volunteers have reportedly found their starting quarterback for the start of the 2026 season.
According to reports from On3’s Chris Low, five-star true freshman Faizon Brandon has won Tennessee’s quarterback competition and will start the Volunteers’ season opener against Furman on Sept. 5 at Neyland Stadium.
Brandon emerged from a closely watched offseason battle that included redshirt freshman George MacIntyre and Colorado transfer Ryan Staub. The competition was one of the biggest storylines of spring practice and fall camp as Tennessee prepared for the upcoming season.
By earning the starting job, Brandon makes program history.
He becomes the first true freshman quarterback to start a season opener for Tennessee since Brent Schaeffer in 2004, a milestone that underscores the confidence the coaching staff has in the highly touted recruit.
Brandon arrived in Knoxville as one of the nation’s most celebrated quarterback prospects after a record-setting career at Grimsley High School in North Carolina.
During his prep career, Brandon established himself as one of the most productive dual-threat quarterbacks in high school football. He threw for 7,490 yards and 90 touchdowns while adding 1,494 rushing yards and 24 rushing touchdowns.
His combination of arm talent, mobility and playmaking ability made him one of the most sought-after recruits in the country and helped generate significant excitement among Tennessee fans.
Now, the freshman signal caller will be tasked with leading the Volunteers into the 2026 season as Tennessee looks to contend in the SEC and on the national stage.
The Vols are scheduled to open the season against Furman on September 5 at Neyland Stadium.
