Jalen Smith, a 3-star linebacker out of Loganville, Georgia (Grayson) has announced a commitment to play in the SEC.

Smith committed to Tennessee, and continues recent momentum for the Vols, who earlier Sunday added a commitment from 5-star pass rusher in Chandavian Bradley. Smith is ranked the No. 40 linebacker in the class of 2023, and the No. 43 player in the state of Georgia, according to the 247Sports Composite. It’s been a busy month for the Vols, as the 6-foot and 213-pound linebacker became Tennessee’s 18th commit in its 2023 recruiting class and the sixth player to commit in the month of July.

Grayson is a perennial power in Georgia, and previously produced former Tennessee offensive lineman and 5-star recruit Wanya Morris.

The Vols beat out Pitt, Virginia and Texas for Smith.

“When I came on my official visit, I just felt like home,” Smith told Rivals. “Being around the coaching staff … everybody here, just felt like a family atmosphere. I feel like they’re going in a great direction. Coach (Josh) Heupel is going to come in and do a great job, so it’s something I want to be a part of.”

Smith’s commitment bumped Tennessee up to the No. 5 recruiting class in the 247Sports team rankings.

Here are his highlights from Hudl: