Shockwaves in College Football: Wisconsin’s Top 2026 Cornerback Target Shocks Fans by Committing to SEC Giant
Here’s 247Sports’ scouting analyst Gabe Brooks’s analysis of what Theodore — a two-sport athlete in football and track — brings to the gridiron:
- Top 2026 cornerback recruit Jamyan Theodore committed to Tennessee over Wisconsin, Louisville, and Ole Miss.
- Theodore, a three-star prospect from Chattanooga, TN, is ranked No. 768 overall in the 2026 class.
- Wisconsin’s 2026 recruiting class currently ranks 38th nationally and 13th in the Big Ten.
- The Badgers have commitments from two other defensive backs in the 2026 class.
In addition to his three-star profile, 247Sports considers Theodore the No. 768 overall recruit, the No. 64 cornerback and the No. 20 player from his home state of Tennessee for the class of 2026. During his 2024 slate at Baylor High School, the rising senior logged five interceptions, two pick-sizes and 18 pass breakups.Wisconsin football top class of 2026 cornerback target Jamyan Theodore committed to the Tennessee Volunteers on Tuesday. While Theodore’s decision is somewhat of a disappointment for Badger fans, it doesn’t come as much of a surprise. As of July 1, Wisconsin’s class of 2026 boasts the No. 38 ranking in the country and No. 13 position in the Big Ten with 15 players committed. Three-star cornerback Carsen Eloms and three-star safety Zachary Taylor are the only defensive backs to pledge their commitments to Wisconsin this cycle to date.
“Hyper-aware cornerback prospect with valuable two-way experience and corresponding ball skills. Adept at breaking on throws from off coverage and will get mitts in the catch window even if the INT isn’t there… Could provide flexibility in the secondary with anticipatory acumen and ball-hawking play style that translate to safety and nickel as well. Displays the desired competitive field demeanor for the corner position… Projects to the Power Four level as a natural corner with potential position flexibility who could become a quality starter with special teams value.:
Theodore, who received his offer from Luke Fickell’s program back on Feb. 11, elected to join Josh Heupel and the Volunteers over finalists Wisconsin, Louisville and Ole Miss. The 6-foot, 171-pound defensive back officially visited Madison the weekend of June 6, preceding visits with the Rebels (June 10), Volunteers (June 13) and Cardinals (June 20).
When it comes to the swirling world of college football recruiting, every decision lands with a thud—sometimes a cheer, sometimes a sigh. This week, the Tennessee Volunteers snagged a prize: Jamyan Theodore, a top cornerback prospect class of 2026, chose the Volunteers over heavy hitters like Wisconsin, Louisville, and Ole Miss. Standing 6-foot and weighing in at 171 pounds, this Chattanooga native has been turning heads all season with his ball-hawking skills and defensive savvy. Now, I’ll be honest—Badgers fans might be feeling that familiar sting of a missed opportunity, but such is the riveting chess match of recruitment. Wisconsin’s class ranks solidly but missed out on Theodore, who impressed at Baylor High with interceptions and timely breakups. His commitment to Tennessee shifts the defensive landscape and spotlights how crucial every visit, offer, and gut feeling can be. Curious about the full story behind this pivot and what it means next for Wisconsin’s defensive backs? LEARN MORE
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The Chattanooga, Tennessee, native was projected to land in Knoxville by 247Sports analyst Nick Osen on June 30. On3’s recruiting prediction machine also pegged the Volunteers as a heavy favorite with over an 86% chance to land the three-star cornerback.
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