Impact Analysis: Vols add priority in-state defender in Zach Groves
Tennessee added an important in-state piece to the 2026 recruiting class on Tuesday when East Robertson High School standout EDGE Zach Groves announced his commitment to the Vols. Volquest breaks down the commitment in this impact analysis.
The Scout on Zach Groves
“Zach Groves is an athletic pass rusher that makes a lot of plays on friday night on both sides of the ball. He reallyimpresses us with his play speed and his effort in backside pursuit. You see him make plays behind the line of scrimmage with his athleticism and ability to chase down ball carriers. He plays with a high motor and a really encouraging effort level. We also see him make plays as a pass-catcher on offense. He just finds ways to impact the game with physicality and the way that he plays hard which you always want to see. I think he can continue to improve as a finisher in the backfield, but he certainly shows the skillset you like as a pass-rusher. He is a nice in-state pickup on the EDGE for Tennessee. A guy who projects well with what they do on defense.”- On3 Director of Scouting and Rankings Charles Power
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What does Groves commitment mean for the EDGE room?
Tennessee adds Groves as a guy that can rush the passer from multiple spots with CJ Edwards to a position group that still has plenty of room to grow in this class. Groves added 20 pounds to his frame this off-season and could continue to grow and play multiple techniques at Tennessee. That is something the Vols have liked to add over the past few cycles, and he fits the mold. This is an important addition for the Vols as they have heavily recruited Groves for months, and to keep him in-state and beat out other top programs ahead of official visits is a strong statement for Tennessee.
So what is next?
Tennessee will continue to recruit a number of versatile EDGE/DE prospects that could play a variety of roles in their defense. June will be a busy month for the EDGE/DE position in Knoxville. Dre Quinn, Tristian Givens, Hezekiah Harris, and Keysaun Elezaer are all set for official visits in June.
