CONFIRM NEWS: Faizon Brandon, a five-star quarterback from Grimsley High School in Greensboro, North Carolina, has reaffirmed his commitment to the University of Tennessee, exemplifying true sportsmanship and loyalty.

CONFIRM NEWS: Faizon Brandon, a five-star quarterback from Grimsley High School in Greensboro, North Carolina, has reaffirmed his commitment to the University of Tennessee, exemplifying true sportsmanship and loyalty.

Despite being the nation’s top-ranked recruit for the class of 2026 , Brandon has chosen to honor his original commitment to the Volunteers, turning down lucrative Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) offers from other Southeastern Conference (SEC) programs.

 

In August 2024, Brandon verbally committed to Tennessee, selecting the Volunteers over other top programs, including LSU, NC State, and Alabama . His decision was driven by a strong connection with the coaching staff and the university’s vision for its football program. Since his commitment, Brandon has remained steadfast, stating, “Tennessee is the place I want to be, so I really don’t want to talk to anyone else” .

 

Brandon’s loyalty extends beyond his college commitment. Faced with North Carolina’s restrictions on NIL activities for public school athletes, he and his mother, Rolanda Brandon, filed a lawsuit against the state Board of Education . The lawsuit challenges the state’s prohibition, which prevents public school athletes from profiting from their NIL, unlike their private school counterparts. This legal action underscores Brandon’s commitment to advocating for equal opportunities for all student-athletes in North Carolina.

 

Despite the potential financial benefits of transferring to a private school or accepting other NIL offers, Brandon chose to remain at Grimsley High School. His coach, Darryl Brown, praised this decision, highlighting Brandon’s dedication to his teammates and community: “Faizon could have left. Faizon doesn’t want to leave, right? He loves Grimsley, loves his teammates, loves our football program, loves his school, loves his classmates, loves his teachers” .

 

Brandon’s actions reflect a deep sense of integrity and commitment, prioritizing team camaraderie and personal values over immediate financial gain. By rejecting substantial NIL offers and reaffirming his dedication to Tennessee, he sets a commendable example of sportsmanship and loyalty in modern collegiate athletics.