Alcoa's JaColby Cooper signs with Tennessee football

The high school star athlete is headed to play for the Volunteers.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

JaColby Cooper, a standout athlete from Alcoa, Tennessee, has signed to play football for the University of Tennessee. Cooper is known for his quiet and reserved demeanor, but his competitive drive and skills on the basketball court and football field have earned him a spot on the Volunteers' roster.

Why it matters

Cooper's signing is a major recruiting win for the Tennessee football program, which is looking to build on its recent success. As a local talent from the Alcoa area, Cooper's commitment to the Volunteers is seen as a positive sign for the team's ability to attract top in-state players.

The details

JaColby Cooper, a high school athlete from Alcoa, Tennessee, has officially signed to play football for the University of Tennessee. Cooper is known for his reserved personality but has proven to be a fierce competitor on the basketball court and football field during his time at Alcoa High School.

  • Cooper signed his National Letter of Intent on February 14, 2026.

The players

JaColby Cooper

A high school athlete from Alcoa, Tennessee who has signed to play football for the University of Tennessee.

University of Tennessee

The college football program that has recruited JaColby Cooper to play for their team.

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What’s next

Cooper will join the Tennessee football team for the upcoming 2026 season and will look to make an immediate impact as a freshman.

The takeaway

Cooper's signing is a win for the Tennessee football program, which has been able to attract top in-state talent like Cooper to join their team and help build the program's future success.