Justin Hopkins, a 2026 Tennessee football target, has four finalists, including the Vols and USC.
Justin Hopkins, a highly sought-after recruit from the 2026 class, has certainly made waves in the world of college football recruiting. With his unique skill set and tremendous upside, it is no surprise that a number of top-tier programs are vying for his commitment. Among the schools that have emerged as contenders for his services are Tennessee (the Vols) and USC, two programs with rich traditions and bright futures. With the stakes high for both programs, the recruitment of Hopkins is shaping up to be a dramatic and closely followed saga in the world of college football.
The Rise of Justin Hopkins
Before diving into the final contenders in Justin Hopkins’ recruitment, it’s important to understand how he rose to prominence in the football world. Hopkins, a dynamic athlete known for his impressive combination of size, speed, and football IQ, has been a standout player on the field since his early days in high school.
Standing at an impressive height with a well-built frame, Hopkins has proven to be an exceptional talent in both offensive and defensive roles. Whether as a wide receiver, defensive back, or even playing in the return game, Hopkins has demonstrated his versatility and ability to make big plays in key moments. His agility and vision on the field have garnered attention from some of the best college programs in the country, with recruiting analysts praising his high football IQ and explosive athleticism.
As a recruit for the 2026 class, Hopkins has already made a name for himself as one of the most highly rated players in his class. His mix of athletic traits, intelligence, and versatility has made him an incredibly valuable commodity. Whether it’s in one-on-one drills or full-field scrimmages, he continues to impress scouts, coaches, and analysts alike, consistently showcasing his ability to dominate on both sides of the ball.
The Finalists: Tennessee and USC
With his recruitment now down to four finalists, the focus has narrowed to two of the most prominent and storied football programs in the nation: Tennessee and USC. These two schools have a long history of success, with passionate fanbases, legendary coaches, and rich traditions of excellence in college football. So, what is it about these two schools that has caught Hopkins’ attention? Let’s break down what each of these programs offers and what their chances are of securing his commitment.
Tennessee Volunteers: A Resurgent Powerhouse
Tennessee, also known as the Volunteers or Vols, has long been a major player in college football. While the program has experienced its share of ups and downs in recent years, it has shown signs of resurgence under head coach Josh Heupel. The Vols’ high-octane offensive system and emphasis on developing players into pros have made them an attractive destination for top recruits, and they are certainly a program on the rise.
Tennessee’s recruiting efforts under Heupel have been impressive, with the Vols consistently landing top-tier talent from across the nation. The team’s offensive philosophy, which emphasizes speed, tempo, and explosiveness, aligns well with Hopkins’ strengths as an athlete. Heupel’s commitment to developing players and his proven ability to put them in positions to succeed is a significant selling point for a player like Hopkins.
The Vols’ fanbase is among the most passionate in the country, and the atmosphere in Neyland Stadium on game days is nothing short of electric. For a player like Hopkins, the chance to compete in front of tens of thousands of loyal fans and be part of a program with such a rich tradition could be an exciting opportunity. Additionally, Tennessee has been a strong contender in the SEC in recent years, and the prospect of competing for SEC championships while also being developed for the NFL could be incredibly appealing to Hopkins.
Under Heupel, Tennessee has managed to return to the national conversation, and Hopkins could be the perfect piece to help solidify the Vols’ future success. His versatility and explosive playmaking ability would fit perfectly in Tennessee’s system, whether it’s as a dynamic wide receiver, an elite returner, or even in a defensive role. The Vols’ chances of landing Hopkins are strong, and they certainly have the pedigree, coaching staff, and program success to make a compelling case.
USC Trojans: A National Brand with Rich History
USC, one of the most recognizable and successful programs in college football history, also finds itself in the running for Justin Hopkins’ services. Known for its history of producing NFL talent and competing for national championships, USC is a program that carries significant weight in the recruiting world. The Trojans have long been a fixture on the national stage, and their appeal to top-tier recruits is undeniable.
Under head coach Lincoln Riley, USC has re-established itself as one of the premier programs in college football. Riley, known for his high-powered offenses and track record of developing quarterbacks and offensive playmakers, has brought new life to the Trojans’ program. His ability to produce elite offensive talent and his commitment to building a championship contender make USC an attractive destination for a player like Hopkins, who is known for his playmaking ability.
USC’s location in Los Angeles also plays a significant role in its recruitment efforts. The bright lights of Hollywood, combined with the city’s rich football culture, create a unique appeal that many top recruits find hard to resist. Playing at USC means the opportunity to be seen on a national stage, potentially in front of NFL scouts every week. This exposure, paired with the chance to play in one of the most prestigious college football programs in the country, is a major selling point for recruits like Hopkins.
The Trojans’ offensive style, which emphasizes creativity, versatility, and big-play potential, aligns well with Hopkins’ skill set. Whether as a wide receiver or a defensive back, Hopkins would have the chance to showcase his skills in one of the most exciting offenses in the country. Additionally, USC’s tradition of producing top-tier NFL talent is something that would certainly resonate with a player like Hopkins, who has aspirations of playing at the next level.
With Riley at the helm, USC is poised for greatness, and the Trojans’ strong showing in the Pac-12 and on the national stage makes them a legitimate contender in the race for Hopkins’ commitment. The combination of USC’s history, Riley’s coaching acumen, and the opportunity to play in one of the nation’s most exciting programs make the Trojans a formidable threat.
The Other Two Finalists
While Tennessee and USC are certainly two of the heavyweights in this race, it’s important to recognize that there are still two other finalists in the mix. These schools have also made significant strides in recruiting and have made compelling cases to Hopkins. However, it is clear that the competition has now come down to these two programs, with Tennessee and USC holding the inside track to land his commitment.
The recruitment of Justin Hopkins remains fluid, and while both Tennessee and USC are currently at the forefront, anything can happen in the coming months. For now, though, the Vols and Trojans are the two programs that seem to have the most momentum, and both are pushing hard to land one of the most talented recruits in the 2026 class.
 A Critical Decision for the Future
As Justin Hopkins’ recruitment continues to evolve, it’s clear that his decision will be one of the most highly anticipated of the 2026 recruiting cycle. With Tennessee and USC both making their respective pitches, the race for Hopkins is far from over. What is certain, however, is that whichever program he chooses will be getting a dynamic and versatile athlete with the potential to make an immediate impact on the field.
For Tennessee, landing Hopkins would solidify the Vols’ rise to prominence in the SEC, bringing in a game-changing talent to an already explosive offense. For USC, securing Hopkins would be another feather in the cap of Lincoln Riley’s revitalization of the Trojans, further solidifying their standing as a powerhouse in college football.
In the coming months, expect the drama of Justin Hopkins’ recruitment to unfold with even more intensity. For now, both Tennessee and USC will continue to push for his commitment, each hoping to land one of the most promising recruits in the country. The future of college football will be closely watching as this talented young athlete makes his decision.
