Kenneth Simon II, a four-star linebacker ranked No. 7 among linebackers and No. 131 nationally, is set to reveal his college choice on Monday. The announcement caps a recruitment that has drawn interest from a dozen power programs.
Alabama enters the picture as the clear favorite, buoyed by its reputation for developing elite defensive talent and a proven pipeline to the NFL. The Crimson Tide’s brand of defense has become a magnet for top prospects seeking both championship contention and professional preparation.
The Family Legacy Factor
Tennessee, meanwhile, is leveraging a personal connection that could tip the scales. Simon’s father, Kevin Simon, starred for the Volunteers before reaching the NFL, and the school recently appointed Jim Knowles as its new defensive coordinator, a move that many analysts believe could reshape the program’s trajectory.
Other programs such as Notre Dame, Florida, Indiana, Michigan, Georgia, Ole Miss, Oklahoma State, Ohio State and Penn State have all signaled interest, underscoring the breadth of suitors for a player who sits just outside the top 150 prospects.
What makes Simon’s case distinctive is his desire to carve out an independent path rather than simply follow his father’s legacy. He has spoken about the appeal of building his own narrative while still benefiting from the resources and exposure that a major SEC school provides.
The recruitment reflects a broader trend in which elite prospects often extend their negotiations well beyond the initial commitment, especially when multiple top-tier programs remain in the mix. If Tennessee can translate Knowles’s scheme into on-field improvement, its defense could emerge as a serious factor for the 2026 season.