In a significant boost to their 2026 recruiting class, the Tennessee Volunteers have officially announced the signing of four-star running back Jonaz Walton from Central High School in Carrollton, Georgia. Walton, standing at 5-foot-9 and weighing 200 pounds, is widely regarded as one of the premier running back prospects in the nation.
During his sophomore season, Walton showcased exceptional talent by amassing 1,683 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns, averaging an impressive 8.1 yards per carry. His versatility was further highlighted by 24 receptions for 272 yards and an additional touchdown. These outstanding performances have positioned him as the No. 10 running back in the 2026 class, according to 247Sports’ rankings.
Walton’s commitment to Tennessee comes after a rigorous recruitment process, where he considered offers from several top-tier programs, including Alabama, Notre Dame, Florida, and Ohio State. His decision was heavily influenced by the strong relationships he built with the Tennessee coaching staff and the program’s demonstrated success in developing running backs for the professional level.
Head Coach Josh Heupel expressed his enthusiasm about Walton joining the Volunteers, stating, “Jonaz embodies the competitive spirit and athleticism we value at Tennessee. His commitment is a testament to the culture we’re building here.”
Walton’s commitment is a significant addition to Tennessee’s 2026 recruiting class, which aims to build upon the program’s recent successes. His dynamic playmaking abilities and proven track record of performance are expected to make an immediate impact on the Volunteers’ offense.
As Walton transitions to the collegiate level, Tennessee fans eagerly anticipate the contributions he will bring to the field, confident that his blend of speed, agility, and football intelligence will enhance the team’s competitive edge in the seasons to come.
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