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JACKSON, TN — July 8, 2025 — In front of a packed gymnasium of family, friends, coaches, and teammates, North Side High School senior and 4-star wide receiver/defensive back Javonte Smith officially announced his commitment to play football for the University of Tennessee Volunteers.
Smith, who is ranked among the nation’s top prospects, chose Tennessee over other top programs including Missouri, Arkansas, and West Virginia. Missouri was a close runner-up, but a visit to Knoxville sealed the deal for the dynamic athlete.
“It all came down to where my heart was,” Smith said moments after making his announcement. “I want to feel at home when I’m on that field, I want to feel like myself when I’m on that field.”
Smith credited North Side head coach Woodrow Lowe for helping him navigate the whirlwind recruiting process. “All of this was so new to me and Coach Lowe helped guide me through it all. I’m thankful for him,” Smith added.
While his football future is bright, Smith revealed that baseball was actually his first love. “When Coach Lowe took the job here, he told me if I would continue to play football my life would begin to change drastically and that I’d have a real shot at playing wherever I wanted to in the country,” Smith said. “He was a big inspiration in me continuing to play football even though baseball was my first love.”
With a grin, Smith hinted that baseball might not be completely in the rearview mirror. “I may have to give Coach Vitello (Tennessee baseball head coach) a call once I step on campus because I still love baseball just as much as football and always will.”
Coach Lowe had high praise for his star player both on and off the field. “This recruiting process just reassured what I already knew about Javonte,” Lowe said. “A super loyal kid with a great family. He is a ball player that is committed to his family, his team, and the game.”
Lowe recalled the moment he knew Smith was a special talent. “After I saw him run his first route, I knew he was special. I used to play video games where the player would light up when he gets hot — Javonte is the first player I’ve ever coached that lights up when he gets hot. When he makes a mistake, it’s, ‘Coach, I got you, get me the ball, I’m going to make up for it.’ He’s one of those players that when he turns it on, there’s no stopping him.”
Beyond his athleticism, Lowe highlighted Smith’s leadership and character. “He’s a leader, he’s a young man any coach would want on their team. He’s always wanted to do everything right and when I’m speaking to the team, he’s always front and center.”
Lowe also encouraged the local community to come out and support the Indians this season. “Come check out Javonte and our team. We are building something special and something Jackson can be proud of, so we’d love to have your support.”
Smith plans to graduate in December and enroll early at Tennessee. Although he is being recruited as an athlete, he is expected to contribute in the secondary as a defensive back for the Vols. The North Side community will surely be watching closely as Javonte Smith continues his journey from local standout to SEC star.
