The Volunteers got another big addition to their 2024 recruiting class on Saturday with the verbal commitment of Marcus Gore Jr. The three-star prospect from Bradley Central (Tenn.) is a big-time playmaker and a perfect fit for head coach Josh Heupel. protection.
Goree, Jr. ended up choosing Tennessee over a recently announced Top 5 that also included Colorado, Michigan, Michigan State and Nebraska. He originally received an offer from the Volunteer staff after an impressive performance in camp in June. This was followed by numerous visits to Knoxville for game day visits, and his most recent trip was in January for Jr. Day.
The 6-foot-1, 170-pound Gorey, Jr. is a highly skilled player who can play multiple safety spots in the secondary, tracks the ball well and brings plenty of physicality. During his junior season, he recorded 54 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, two interceptions and 11 pass breakups.
For the Vols, the addition of Goree, Jr. gives them their third in-state commitment in the 2024 class so far, joining four-star cornerback Caleb Beasley and three-star defensive end Carson Gentle. Goree Jr. is rated a high 5.7, three stars and the No. 11 prospect in the state of Tennessee.
It’s clear that Josh Heupel and his staff are focused on securing top-level talent in the state, and with talent like Boo Carter, Edwin Spielman and others still available, it could be very impressive for Tennessee in 2024.