Five Incoming Vols Preparing for 2025 Polynesian Bowl

The 2025 Polynesian Bowl is rapidly approaching, and several standout incoming players from the University of Tennessee Volunteers (Vols) have been selected to showcase their talents on the prestigious stage. This year’s edition of the Polynesian Bowl, which will be held in Hawaii, promises to be another thrilling matchup between the best high school football players from across the country and around the world. For Tennessee’s five incoming players, the Polynesian Bowl is more than just a football game — it is an opportunity to demonstrate their skills before arriving in Knoxville, make lasting memories, and prepare for the challenges of playing in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).

1. Wide Receiver: Elijah Moore

Elijah Moore is widely regarded as one of the top wide receivers in the 2025 recruiting class, and his selection to the Polynesian Bowl is a testament to his skills and potential. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing 190 pounds, Moore is a versatile wideout with excellent hands, sharp route-running ability, and the kind of athleticism that can make defenders look silly. With Tennessee’s offense becoming more high-powered under head coach Josh Heupel, Moore could play a key role in the Vols’ future success.

At the Polynesian Bowl, Moore will be able to showcase his ability to separate from defenders with his quick footwork and elite speed, as well as his ability to go up and grab high throws. His strength lies in his ability to run precise routes, a skill that is crucial in a high-paced offense like the one Heupel runs at Tennessee. Being able to compete at this level, with top-tier athletes from all over the country, will help Moore improve his skills in a competitive environment and further prepare him for the college game.

Moore’s playmaking ability will also be on display as he goes up against some of the best cornerbacks in the nation. He’ll likely draw attention from NFL scouts and college coaches, which could give him a significant boost as he heads into his freshman year with the Vols. If he can translate his success in the Polynesian Bowl into the SEC, he could emerge as one of Tennessee’s top receiving threats sooner than expected.

2. Quarterback: Ryan Mitchell

Ryan Mitchell, a 6’4″, 215-pound quarterback, has been a standout player throughout his high school career, and his selection to the Polynesian Bowl comes as no surprise. Mitchell is an excellent dual-threat quarterback who combines a powerful arm with the ability to make plays with his legs. His throwing mechanics are sound, and he can make all the necessary throws, whether it’s deep balls, short to intermediate routes, or timing throws. His mobility allows him to extend plays when the pocket breaks down, something that will serve him well in Heupel’s fast-paced, spread offense at Tennessee.

While Mitchell will not be playing as Tennessee’s starter right away, the Polynesian Bowl will give him valuable exposure to high-level competition. He’ll face some of the top defensive players in the nation, which will help him hone his skills and understand what it takes to excel against elite opponents. Additionally, this experience will allow Mitchell to build chemistry with his fellow incoming players, especially the wide receivers, as they work together to develop their timing and coordination.

Though Mitchell has already committed to Tennessee, the Polynesian Bowl is an excellent chance for him to get one step closer to the kind of leadership and development needed to take the Vols to the next level in Heupel’s offense. Learning from his experiences in Hawaii, Mitchell will be able to bring back invaluable lessons that will help him in Knoxville as he prepares for the next chapter of his football career.

3. Defensive Lineman: Jalen Carter

Jalen Carter, a 6’5″, 280-pound defensive lineman, is another player who has been selected to the Polynesian Bowl. Carter is known for his explosive burst off the line of scrimmage, and he uses his size, strength, and athleticism to disrupt offensive lines and wreak havoc in the backfield. His potential to be a game-changer for Tennessee’s defense is immense, and the Polynesian Bowl will serve as an excellent stage for him to prove that he belongs among the nation’s best.

One of Carter’s biggest strengths is his ability to anchor the line of scrimmage and shed blockers with ease. His quick first step and strong hands allow him to defeat offensive linemen, and his pass-rushing prowess could make him a nightmare for quarterbacks in the SEC. At the Polynesian Bowl, Carter will face some of the top offensive linemen in the country, which will provide him with the opportunity to fine-tune his skills in a highly competitive environment.

Playing in such a prestigious event will also give Carter valuable exposure to college coaches, scouts, and potential future teammates. He’ll have the chance to go head-to-head with some of the best offensive players in the nation, which will help him refine his technique and enhance his mental toughness. As one of the top defensive line prospects in his class, Carter’s performance at the Polynesian Bowl will be crucial in solidifying his reputation as one of the most promising defensive players to watch at Tennessee.

4. Linebacker: James Williams

James Williams, a 6’3″, 220-pound linebacker, is widely regarded as one of the most versatile defensive players in the 2025 class. His ability to play both inside and outside linebacker, combined with his speed and athleticism, makes him a dangerous weapon on defense. Williams’ knack for reading plays and diagnosing the ball carrier makes him a natural at disrupting offensive schemes, and his leadership qualities make him an asset to any team.

At the Polynesian Bowl, Williams will be tasked with taking on some of the most athletic and dangerous skill players in the country. This will give him a chance to further refine his instincts and on-field awareness while competing against high-level talent. Williams has the potential to shine at the event with his ability to cover ground quickly and make plays all over the field. He’ll be tested by fast and physical running backs, tight ends, and quarterbacks, and how he responds will be key in determining his future success at Tennessee.

One of the biggest benefits for Williams at the Polynesian Bowl is the opportunity to learn from experienced coaches and other standout athletes. He’ll be able to pick up tips on how to read offensive formations and adjust his positioning in order to make a bigger impact on defense. Williams’ performance in Hawaii could play a significant role in how he is viewed by Tennessee coaches and could help him solidify his spot in the Vols’ linebacker rotation early in his college career.

5. Cornerback: Marcus Johnson

Marcus Johnson is a 5’11”, 190-pound cornerback with the ability to lock down wide receivers and create turnovers. His speed, agility, and ball skills make him a nightmare for quarterbacks, and his ability to read the quarterback’s eyes and make plays on the ball sets him apart from other corners. Johnson’s playmaking ability will be on full display at the Polynesian Bowl, where he’ll face some of the best wide receivers in the nation.

One of Johnson’s most impressive traits is his ability to mirror wide receivers and stay glued to them throughout the route. Whether it’s in man coverage or zone, Johnson excels at maintaining tight coverage and reading the quarterback’s intentions. In Hawaii, he’ll have the opportunity to face off against wideouts with elite speed and route-running ability, which will help him grow as a cornerback and prepare for the challenges he’ll face in the SEC.

The Polynesian Bowl will also give Johnson a chance to further develop his communication and teamwork with other defensive backs. As cornerbacks often work together to create turnovers and disrupt the offense, building chemistry with other defensive players will be vital for Johnson’s development. His performance in Hawaii could have a major impact on his trajectory at Tennessee, as coaches will be watching closely to see how he handles top-tier competition.