Four-Star CB Cai Bates Announces Commitment Date

Tennessee defensive backs coach Willie Martinez has made landing another corner opposite Kaleb Beasley a priority over the past few months. This isn't strange news to Tennessee fans or even unfamiliar. The Vols hope to land two guys at several spots in the 2024 class, but Martinez has had one target in mind from day one. Orlando area native Cai Bates is a top-100 eval in the cycle, and Martinez wants him to be the guy opposite Beasley.

The LSU Tigers were making real strides for Bates a few months ago, but Tennessee has come on very strong in recent weeks after his official visit. They have been a constant in his recruitment and are among his top group of contenders heading into his commitment. Bates officially announced his commitment date, saying that he would decide between Alabama, Colorado, Florida State, LSU, Ohio State, Tennessee, and Texas A&M on July 26. It appears to be a two-horse race between LSU and Tennessee, with the Vols carrying momentum.

Bates officially visited Alabama, Florida State, LSU, and Tennessee this summer, all of which came away feeling good about their chances. He's enjoyed the process but is ready to focus on his senior season and put this behind him. Bates spoke with On3 after his announcement and shared why he's interested in Tennessee. "I have a really good relationship with them. I would have the opportunity to play early to play there, too," Bates explained. "They have a lot of senior defensive backs leaving, so the opportunity to play early is definitely there."

Tennessee's 2024 Recruiting Class

Jake Merklinger, QB
Peyton Lewis, RB
Braylon Staley, WR
Jonathan Echols, TE
Gage Ginther, OL
Jesse Perry, OG
Max Anderson, OG
Kellen Lindstrom, DL
Carson Gentle, DL
Jeremias Heard, DL
Jordan Burns, ILB
Kaleb Beasley, CB
Boo Carter, S
Edrees Farooq, S
Marcus Goree, DB

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