Joel Wyatt, the No. 2 prospect in the state and a football target for Tennessee, moves to
Joel Wyatt, one of the most electrifying high school football players in the country and the No. 2 overall prospect in the state of Tennessee, has made a major move that could reshape the final months of his recruitment. The 6-foot-4, 200-pound athlete recently transferred from The Webb School in Bell Buckle to Oakland High School in Murfreesboro, a powerhouse program known for producing Division I talent and competing for state championships. The timing of the move, just ahead of his senior season, and the context of his open recruitment suggest there is more at stake than just geography. This isn’t just a simple school switch—it’s a strategic decision, both in terms of competition and visibility, as Wyatt inches closer to his college commitment.
The Webb School, where Wyatt previously starred, is a respected private institution, but its football program doesn’t carry the same level of exposure or competitive weight as Oakland. By transferring to Oakland, Wyatt is placing himself on a larger stage, one that draws consistent attention from major college scouts and recruiters. Oakland High, which regularly produces top-tier talent, has a history of deep playoff runs and a strong, disciplined football culture. It’s a program that mirrors what Wyatt will face at the next level—structured systems, high expectations, and no shortage of pressure to perform. For someone like Wyatt, who has the tools to play multiple positions at a high level, the upgrade in competition could be critical in sharpening his readiness for college football.
Recruiting-wise, Wyatt is still technically uncommitted, although Tennessee and Vanderbilt have long been considered the favorites. His initial announcement was expected on July 6, but he delayed that decision, a move that coincided closely with his transfer. That postponement raised eyebrows across the recruiting world and sent a clear signal that Wyatt may still be weighing new or evolving options. Not long after he pushed back his commitment, both Louisville and Oklahoma offered him scholarships, joining a growing list of programs that see him as a potential difference-maker. North Carolina, under first-year head coach Bill Belichick, has also turned up the heat in their pursuit of Wyatt, adding further intrigue to an already complex recruitment.
Wyatt’s athletic profile is as unique as it is versatile. He plays both sides of the ball—something increasingly rare at the high school level—and is equally dangerous as a wide receiver, linebacker, safety, and tight end. College coaches love players like him because he offers flexibility in scheme and position. At 6’4″ with long strides and quick-twitch explosiveness, Wyatt can stretch the field offensively or cover large amounts of space defensively. He has the range to play over the top as a safety, the instincts and frame to be molded into a hybrid linebacker, and the natural ball skills to dominate as a pass catcher. Some evaluators have even suggested edge rusher as a long-term projection if he fills out his frame, further underscoring just how rare his skill set is.
Tennessee remains a top contender for his commitment. The Volunteers have stayed in constant communication with Wyatt and reportedly see him as a potential star safety at the next level. They have emphasized development and playing time, pitching a long-term vision that includes early opportunity and the ability to remain in-state. His move to Oakland doesn’t alter the Vols’ proximity to him—it may even help them, as Oakland’s reputation will give Tennessee’s staff more consistent looks at Wyatt against top-tier talent. Still, their grip on the lead isn’t as firm as it once appeared, and other programs are doing everything they can to close the gap.
Vanderbilt, meanwhile, has made an impressive push for Wyatt and was considered a near co-favorite alongside Tennessee just a month ago. The Commodores hosted him for an official visit in mid-June, and sources indicate the experience was well received. Their pitch is built on academics, early playing time, and the chance to be part of building something new. They’ve framed Wyatt as a foundational piece for their future—a face of the program and someone they want to build around. Whether they can overcome the recent surge of interest from other schools remains to be seen, but they are firmly in the picture.
The new variable, though, is North Carolina. With Belichick at the helm, UNC has become a far more intriguing destination for elite defensive talent. The Tar Heels reportedly view Wyatt as a key target for their 2025 class and have increased their efforts in recent weeks. Belichick’s reputation, combined with the chance to play early in a defensive system that could mimic the NFL, has resonated with Wyatt and his family. UNC’s staff has been creative in their recruiting approach and has emphasized the long-term vision of being developed under one of the greatest football minds of all time. There’s a growing belief that if Wyatt takes another visit to Chapel Hill, UNC could become a true threat to flip him away from the in-state schools.
Louisville’s involvement came swiftly after the announcement that Wyatt was delaying his commitment. The Cardinals offered him on the same day and have made it clear that they view him as a priority. They see him as a defensive weapon who can immediately contribute in their 3-3-5 scheme and have promised early reps if he chooses to join. Oklahoma’s entrance into the race adds another layer of complexity. Though late to the table, the Sooners carry significant name-brand value and have produced a long line of NFL-caliber defensive backs and hybrid defenders. Their program’s recent defensive resurgence under Brent Venables could make them a sleeper pick, especially if Wyatt visits Norman this fall.
The strategic logic behind Wyatt’s transfer is clear. By moving to Oakland, he aligns himself with a team that not only plays against better opponents but also receives more scouting traffic. The transfer could help him improve his rankings, which are already high, and showcase his versatility in different in-game situations. With the intensity and physicality that Oakland’s schedule brings, Wyatt will have a platform to prove he can dominate against elite competition. If he thrives in that environment, it will only boost his stock and validate the idea that he can make an immediate impact at the college level.
There’s also the personal growth angle. Being part of a new team, adapting to a different system, and working under a new coaching staff will challenge Wyatt in ways that prepare him for what’s to come. College football is filled with constant change—transfers, injuries, new schemes, new coaches. Wyatt’s ability to adapt now, at the high school level, could serve him well in college. It’s one thing to dominate in a known system surrounded by familiar teammates. It’s another thing entirely to walk into a new program and lead. That opportunity now sits in front of him.
For now, Wyatt has not set a new commitment date. Sources close to his recruitment say he is likely to make a decision in early fall, perhaps in September or October, but he could wait longer depending on how the season unfolds. It’s clear that his decision is going to come down to more than just football. Academic opportunities, player development, relationships with coaching staffs, and potential for early playing time are all major factors in his thinking. He’s shown that he’s not afraid to take his time and make the choice that’s best for his future—not just the one that looks best on paper.
The football world will continue to watch closely. Wyatt’s recruitment is now one of the most high-profile storylines in the South, and his decision could have ripple effects on whichever program lands him. Whether he ends up staying close to home at Tennessee or Vanderbilt, joins the Belichick rebuild at North Carolina, takes a shot with the Big 12’s Oklahoma, or surprises everyone with a dark horse like Louisville, his future is bright. The only question is where he decides to write the next chapter. For now, he’s focused on getting better every day, learning a new system, and preparing for a senior season that could define the rest of his football career.
