Vols Announce Class Of 2014
Head Coach Butch Jones
(Opening Statement) "Before
I start off I would like to give many thanks to all the individuals who
really helped today become a reality. There is so much that goes into
assembling a recruiting class, a lot of behind the scenes individuals.
But it starts off first and foremost with our coaches. Our assistant
coaches did a tremendous and outstanding job, you look at all the
identifying and the building of relationships. In this recruiting
class, the relationship building and the trust factor has been over a
year in the making and I think that is evidence by basically no drama
today. I think that speaks volumes for our coaches and the way that
they build trust, the way that they build relationships, not only with
the prospective student-athletes or their families but also the high
school coaches. Thank you to all the high school coaches of our
signees, to all of our newcomers, that really, really helped us
throughout this process.
"The coaches' wives, they become
sometimes the father figures of our children while we are out
recruiting and the countless hours we spend, and again there is a lot
that goes into it, our coaches' wives. People in our university
community, starting with Dave Hart, Jimmy Cheek, everyone for really
allowing us to have the facilities and the vision to be able to track
the very high caliber student-athletes to the University of Tennessee.
"The
professors, the many advisors that would give up their Saturdays, their
Sundays, their weekdays, their evenings, to spend with our prospective
student-athletes and their parents. The Thornton staff, led by Dr. Joe
Scogin, Brian Russell and everyone, again the countless hours that they
put into it. One of the selling points in this recruiting class is the
academics and the Thornton Center.
"Our recruiting department,
led by Bob Welton, Dana Morrison, Scott Altizer and Brandon Lawson and
all the behind-the-scenes individuals that really made this a reality.
So much effort that goes in behind when these individuals come on
official visits, we are really selling them what the University of
Tennessee has and the great city of Knoxville.
"The MVP, the
Tennessee air force, I say it every year, but this week they were
instrumental. All the great donors, who very willingly gave their
planes, I can't tell you where we would be without them. This year we
were a little behind in terms of the recruiting calendar. As everyone
is probably well aware of is that the recruiting calendar was cut short
by a week. So we were down a week in recruiting, so it was catch up
after the dead period expired. So to be at different places, when you
recruit nationally you can't have any wasted time. All the elements,
Mother Nature, from being stuck in Atlanta and trying to get out of
there and them actually flying a plane in to get Coach Gillespie and I
and having about two minutes to get out, I have never been a part of
anything like that before. Many thanks to all of their hard work and
their efforts.
"To our fans. Our fans are the best in the
country and they do such a great job of creating a lot of positive
energy and a lot of pride that just reinforces the importance and
magnitude of Tennessee football. It is not just in the great state of
Tennessee but nationwide. Every single individual in our signing class
was present for game day atmosphere, they were able to take in and feel
that positive energy by our fans and our fan base. Even our local
media. Sometimes we forget that we are all on the same team. The
parents, every single one of our student-athletes, they read the
newspaper. They want to see how supportive our media is of the
Tennessee football program. They want to see how the fan base is
supportive. We had some kids that wanted to be dropped off at the ball.
All they wanted to do was walk around the mall and say hi to people and
see how they would respond to them. Parents were the same way, walking
into a gas station, all of the people being friendly and asking
questions, tell me about the Tennessee football program, that was their
evaluation tool, seeing how people would respond. Going into local
establishments. All of those things are critical when you are selling a
brand like we have here at the University of Tennessee.
"UTSports.com.
That today was amazing. I don't think people understand the magnitude
of effort that goes behind that. I left the office yesterday at 10:30
at night and everyone was still working and setting up for today. They
arrived today when I was still in bed at 4 a.m. and they were in there
setting up. Barry Rice, Link Hudson, Sara Mitchell, Donald Page, they
do a tremendous job behind the scenes individuals that never get much
credit.
"When we started off on this journey of assembling this
recruiting class, we have a very strict recruiting profile. We call it
the Tennessee recruiting profile. It encompasses many things. The first
in order is the individuals character. What are their grades like, what
are their academics? How do they value a college education? The overall
character of this prospective student-athlete.
"Then we get into
competitive character. Our football program, we must have competitive
greatness in everything that we do. That relentless approach about each
and every day. They we get into position specifics, broken down by
specifics. The next thing is a toughness level of everything that we
do. We talk about being Tennessee Tough, we want tough, smart football
players. The next thing we get into are the measurable, obviously,
height, weight, all of the measurable that you look for.
"And
then football makeup. You live it, love it, or like it. We need
individuals that live football everyday. Another thing in our
recruiting profile is that we want individuals that understand what it
is to live the power T. That understand the expectations that come
along with representing a storied program such as the University of
Tennessee. That was big on us. You look at our in-state recruiting. I
want them to understand our rivalries. I want them to understand our
great former players. I want them to understand what it means to
represent this state. You look at the legacy players, we venture off
into other areas that are basically our home bases for recruiting.
"I
feel that we were able to attract that in this recruiting class, we
feel this class with represent Tennessee in a very positive manner on
and off the field. One of the things that we looked at is size and
speed. Make no mistake about it, a few months ago I sat up here and
told you in order for us to move this program forward, we needed to
create depth, we needed to create competition and we needed to improve
our overall team speed, our size, our quickness, our explosiveness. I
believe we were able to do that.
"However, I want to guard
against all of the expectations that are going to come with this
recruiting class. We have to still remember that these are 17-18 year
old individuals. It is like raising your children. Everything is about
their personal growth and development. Each individual with mature
differently. We are going to be an extremely young football team this
year but I am excited because I think we will be youthful, but very
skilled and very talented. I just think it is very unfair to put a lot
on the shoulders of this recruiting class, as we know this class will
probably be judged 2-3 years down the line.
"I think we were
able to address a lot of the immediate needs and one of the biggest
advantages of this class are the 14 early enrollees. You cannot put a
value high enough on putting mid-year enrollees in your football
program. First of all they get a jump-start on college life, academic
workload, what it is to be in an off-season college strength and
conditioning program. They get to bond with their teammates. They get
to understand the standard, the expectations that come along with
playing at the University of Tennessee. It is invaluable. They have
added another element in terms of competition, competitive spirit,
which leads me to the last thing.
"Our current players became
the greatest ambassadors we had in our football family. When players
come on campus they are always asking the players what is it really
like? The parents do the same thing. Our greatest ambassadors are our
current players. They did an outstanding job of really selling our
mission and our vision on where we are going with Tennessee football."
(On this class being used as a statement) "We
talk about doing everything with a relentless approach. Whether it is
recruiting, academics, or champions in the community. I think it is
just a part of the relentless approach. Our assistant coaches have done
a tremendous job. These were highly recruited individuals, but that
doesn't make them any better football players. For use to get back to
the elite level in the SEC, we have to be able to go toe-to-toe with
anyone in the country. I felt that we were able to do that this year."
(On how recruiting has changed this year) "I
think it changes every year. Every year brings a whole different
dynamic in recruiting. This is the closest group or recruiting class
that I have ever been associated with. You really look at the loyalty
that they exhibit. A lot of these individuals have been committed for a
very long period of time. Not very many of them even too other visits
to other institutions. I thought they showed tremendous loyalty and
great passion, but the closeness is really unique. I think it's the
amount of unofficial visits to campus, but I also think the nature of
recruiting with all the different camps these individuals now go to and
all the all-star games, you start to develop bonds and friendships.
Like I said, this class is extremely close. Then Twitter, everything in
terms of social media helps us accelerate that process as well."
(On realizing the need for defensive lineman) "I
realized it right off the get go. The one thing we needed to improve
was size and big bodies, and we also like individuals who are
multifaceted, which means they can either play offensive line or
defensive line. We know that there is a shortage of big bodies in our
football program right now. That was a point of emphasis. To be able to
attract the type of individuals that we were able to, it is very
pleasing, but now it is up to us to develop them. That was great need
in our football program, but we are still not where we need to be. That
is the other thing, even though it is a large number, we are not going
to improve and fix all of our deficiencies in our football program in
one recruiting class. As a coach, that is one of the things you have to
guard against. We have needs across the board. One recruiting class
isn't going to fix it, but it helps. I think what we will be able to do
now is develop depth and develop players at every position."
(On the time recruiting takes) "It
is a 365 day process. There are no off days in recruiting. That is
where being cut short on the calendar in recruiting, you try to balance
getting into as many high schools as you possible can. When you take a
week out of recruiting with the long, extended dead period, we
basically had to go and re-recruit this recruiting class. Then we had
individuals in different schools coming in and offering all of our
committed players. That was very time consuming as well. It is
non-stop. It is on to 2015 and 2016. It is never ending."
(On how the high number of recruits signed worked out) "It
is very simple. I think it was really made too much out of, but all we
were really able to do was count numbers backwards and count a couple
of numbers forward. We had a plan when we came in here. I spoke about
that recruiting profile. It helps that when we came here last year, not
only for myself but also for the entire staff, it had been our third
time taking over a program. We weren't going to comprise in anything in
the recruiting profile. We did not use all of our scholarships last
year. We were able to count those backwards because we knew that this
was going to be a great recruiting year within our state of Tennessee
and also throughout the course of the country. We were able to do that."
(On counting the numbers forward) "Well
sometimes an individual will delay their enrollment for a semester.
Everything about today is celebrating everyone that is coming in.
People made a big deal out of it, but it is really nothing. The SEC
approves everything we do. It is a matter of where we are at in terms
of the numbers plan that we have had in place for over a year."
(On having three running backs in the class) "That
was an area of need. It is good to bring in three individuals like
Jalen, Treyvon Paulk, and Derrell Scott. This is a physical league, and
you need to play a number of running backs. To be able to bring those
three individuals, it brings competition and depth amongst that group,
which was obviously critical. That was the one area where we really
felt we needed to improve on."
(On Jalen Hurd and Treyvon Paulk both coming off of injuries) "You
always look to that. That was another reason for why we felt we needed
three running backs. Both Jalen and Treyvon are right on schedule. They
are doing a great job with their rehab. We fully anticipate Jalen,
barring any setbacks, to be ready for spring football. Treyvon is doing
a great job with his rehabilitation as well."
(On judging recruits superior to their high school competition) "That
is one of the things that you really have to try and dig deep and
research everything about their competitive nature. That is why some
individuals develop differently. You also, within that recruiting
profile, you take into account the level of competition they are
playing. We try to research everything. Do they play multiple sports?
If they play basketball, we like to go watch them play, but if we can't
watch a game, then we like to watch them practice. In the spring, if
they play baseball or run track, we try to see them in different
elements of their competition and try to assess that. Then you try to
gather and talk to as many people as possible. I liked to talk to
opposing coaches. I will call opposing coaches, and I will ask them
about an individual. I will ask different players that played in
all-star games against them. We are always trying to work that element
of finding out the competitive factor."
(On when he knew how special this recruiting class is) "Right
off the bat. They're great character individuals. The process started
with Vic Wharton. Vic was an individual we had a tremendous
relationship with. We had offered him at the other school that we were
at, we had him in camp at that other school, and we came to a number of
games, so we knew everything about him and his family. We challenged
him to champion this recruiting class. And then Todd Kelly Jr. did a
great job. When you're assembling a class, great players want to play
with great players; they want to be associated with great players. For
Coach Martinez to walk in and talk to a defensive back and say, `Every
day you're going to go and practice, you're going to go against Von
Pearson, you're going to go against Josh Malone, you're going to go
against Vic Wharton'. That's pretty attractive because that's going to
help their overall development as a football player. So we started to
sell the talent of the class as well.
"I knew it was going to be
a special class right from the get-go, and then when we would lose a
game or two, they would call me and say, `Coach, we've got your back.
We're not going anywhere. We're committed to getting this done.' In
society today, it's an instant gratification society. Everyone wants
things now. It's no different with recruits. It's easy for kids to say,
`I'm going to go to school A, or school B because they're winning right
now.' It takes a different, special person to say, `I want to go to
this school because I want to be the difference. I want that ownership
on our class, on me to get Tennessee Football back to its rightful
place.' So when we're talking about competitiveness, that's one of the
things I looked at. Will you accept the responsibility of getting this
football program back? That's what I liked about all of these
individuals. When we had some setbacks this season, they didn't flinch
one bit."
(On the exceptional recruiting in the SEC) "Well,
it's the nature of our conference, and that's why it's the most
competitive conference in the country. I don't think what people really
understand within the SEC, it's the weekly grind; there are no off
weeks in our conference. In everything you do, you compete. Whether
it's on the field, off the field in recruiting, it's the best of the
best. It's the best fan bases. It's the best game day environments. And
that's what makes coaching and playing in the SEC special and also very
challenging."
(On recruiting success in Nashville this year) "We
talked about it, if you remember December 7th back at the introductory
press conference. We spoke about wanting to own our state. This is the
state institution. This is the University of Tennessee and it is very,
very special. We represent a lot of individuals in this great state. We
wanted individuals from this state to represent Tennessee, and the
mid-state; the Nashville area had a lot of talent. It was very exciting
to be able to go in there and get the players that we coveted out of
there. Staying true to form, we want to build this program with home
first talent, and then venture off. Every great program starts with
securing its home state, and we have to do that each and every year,
and I am very excited to be able to do that this year."
(On differences in recruiting Nashville compared to last year) "It
has always been great, but I think probably the greatest thing that
summarizes the culture in Nashville is we announced our Signing Day
Luncheon on our website, and within two hours the entire luncheon was
sold out. Nashville is a tremendous, tremendous recruiting area for us,
it's home to a lot of our passionate fans, and obviously it is very
important to us.
(On ultimately deciding to not add a QB to the class) "We
went back and forth. I think it gets back to, first of all, the
recruiting profile of what we were looking for in terms of a
quarterback. We would have liked to, but when I looked at the state of
our program and where we were at, I feel very comfortable with the
quarterbacks that we have in our football program right now, but also
we needed big bodies. We needed size and speed, and it gets back to
you're not going to correct everything, or you're going to have to
sacrifice one position for another, and I thought we have very good
youth at that position, and that could afford us to put that
scholarship towards another position and move it forward.
(On the lack of drama on signing day) "Well,
when I say not a lot of drama, you still, as a coach, never feel good
until that fax comes in. I was still as nervous as I have ever been.
The last commitments came at midnight and this morning. We had
individuals that were sent scholarship offers by other schools that
they had never even visited before. So I think you saw the state of
college football today, you had individuals switching on signing day,
and I think that's where our coaches did a tremendous job of building
that loyalty, building that trust, and building that togetherness. So
you never feel good until the fax comes in, but our coaches did a
tremendous job of really securing the class."
(On going head-to-head with different SEC schools) "No,
recruiting is recruiting, it's based off of relationships, the only
thing I would probably say is that it's a little bit more accelerated,
there are no off days, really there are no off hours, you are
constantly recruiting and monitoring everything and again I would say
probably just the overall velocity in terms and manner in which you are
recruiting and just constant and never-ending."
(On the recruiting rules changing) "That
was very challenging, but we also had a plan in place so we were able
to adjust and adapt and move on but we had that plan in place for the
entire year so all of a sudden, now when you are in the middle of it
and it is January and that changes, you have to be able to adapt and
adjust and we were able to do that and our compliance office does a
tremendous job here - we have a compliance officer right in our
football office so everything we do has to be approved through our
compliance office and they do a great job and it's a great resource so
we are able to midstream adjust and adapt and adjust I guess."
(On number of planes available for recruiting) "I
really don't, but it sounds like you're looking to donate your plane so
if you have one. Scott Altizer does a great job of really doing my
travel and a lot of the coach's travel but again I don't know the exact
number of it, I can get that for you but again these individuals were
amazing - we're talking about being able to make a call and need a
plane in 30 minutes, being in Atlanta and being in the middle of the
snowstorm and your sitting there, you know you pull over to the side of
the road and your waiting and waiting and you find a mall, we walk into
the mall, and it's 2:30 p.m. and people say we're closing at 3:00 p.m.
and then they come out and the security goes coach we will let you stay
here until 6:00 p.m. so now we are staying here until 6:00, and they
tell us you have 30 minutes to get to the airport and the airport is
about 10 minutes away, thank God for where we were at, but we get there
and literally the pilots are helping us get our luggage, and I knew
there was a little bit of a panic when I said, "Do I have the time to
use the bathroom," and the pilot looked at me and said coach, "Can you
go on the plane." So I knew we were able to go and we were about two
minutes away from not being able to takeoff, and I had to be in Florida
and so they have to fly me back to Nashville, get another donor plane,
and then fly me to Florida, and I got into the hotel with Zach Azzanni
about 11:00 at night and had to be at a couple schools and then board a
plane at 10:00 in the morning and get back to Nashville, so it's all
moving parts and pieces when you're dealing with mother nature and all
that, and they've done a great job."
(On Michael Sawyers being a great addition) "A
great add to us. Michael will compete right away at our one-technique
and he has great hands, great feet, he has a defensive mindset which we
talk about so to be able to add an individual of his stature, of his
caliber, and also from Nashville and Ensworth was really, really big
for us and kind of got my adrenaline flowing when I got that call at
midnight and I didn't go back to sleep since then, but that was a great
pickup for our defensive line."
(On improving team speed with this class) "Well,
I think the first real indication hopefully that you are going to see
in the improvement of our team speed will occur in special teams.
That's where I think you'll hopefully see the first improvement, just
our overall speed in special teams, but you look at the Berry twins,
Evan and Elliot, we had them both in camp and just like twins one ran
4.41 and the other ran a 4.42 so you know to be able to add them, and
we have already talked on our offense outside the numbers at the
receiver position, you look at our linebackers with Dillon Bates, Gavin
Bryant, Chris Weatherd, you know you look at those individuals, Jakob,
we've really improved our speed, and then up front defensively, and
then we spoke about the running back position so I really do believe we
improved our team speed, now it's going to be how this class develops
over the summer months to be in-game ready for Utah State. Thank you."
Derek Barnett
BARNETT HIGHLIGHTS Freshman • Defensive End • 6-2 • 284 Nashville, Tenn./Brentwood Academy Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 4-star (No. 12 strong side defensive end, No. 5 prospect in Tenn.) ESPN: 4-star (No. 25 defensive end, No. 6 prospect in Tenn.) Rivals: 4-star (No. 10 defensive end, No. 5 pro¬¬¬spect in Tenn.) Scout: 4-star (No. 27 defensive end) Coach
Steve Stripling on Barnett: "Derek will be a physical defensive end for
the Volunteers. He comes from an outstanding program and is a very good
technician. He utilizes his hands well and explosive at the point of
attack." At Brentwood Academy: • Lettered at Brentwood Academy, in Brentwood, Tenn. for coach Cody White • Back-to-back Division 2, Class AA Tennessee Mr. Football winner (2012, 2013) • Received All-Midstate honors as a senior • 2013 TSWA All-State selection • All-Division II-AA Defensive Line • As a senior, recorded 60 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks and one forced fumble • Helped Brentwood Academy Eagles to a 9-4 record and state semifinal berth • Also had 141 receiving yards, one receiving touchdown and three rushing touchdowns in senior year Personal: • Full Name: Derek Anthony Barnett • Born: June 25, 1996 • Son of Christine Barnett 7:36 a.m.
Dillon Bates
BATES HIGHLIGHTS Freshman • Linebacker • 6-3 • 213 Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla./Ponte Vedra Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 4-star (No. 97 national prospect, No. 7 outside linebacker, No. 15 prospect in Fla.) ESPN: 4-star (No. 104 national prospect, No. 4 outside linebacker, No. 16 prospect in Fla.) Rivals: 4-star (No. 67 national prospect, No. 3 outside linebacker, No. 10 prospect in Fla.) Scout: 4-star (No. 18 outside linebacker)
Coach
Tommy Thigpen on Bates: "Dillon has exceptional speed. He comes from a
football background with his dad (Bill playing at Tennessee). He has an
exceptional football IQ and will become an immediate impact player for
us this season." At Ponte Vedra: • Four-year letterman at Ponte Vedra High School in Florida for coach Mike Lloyd • Selected to play in 2013 Under Armour All-America High School Football Game • Associated Press Class 5A All-State Team as a senior • Named a Florida Times-Union Super 24, the top recruits of 2013 • All-First Coast Team in 2013 • 2013 Florida Times-Union Super 11 selection • Recorded 81 total tackles and 55 solo tackles in his senior campaign • Credited with more than 300 tackles and 180 solo tackles in his high school career Personal: • Full Name: Dillon Timothy Bates • Born: July 5, 1995 • Son of Denise and Bill Bates •
Father, Bill, was a standout safety for UT and played in the NFL for
the Dallas Cowboys for 15 seasons from 1983-97 winning three Super Bowl
titles
Chris Beck
Junior • Running Beck • 6-0 • 200 Austell, Ga./South Cobb/Dean (Mass.) College Coach
Robert Gillespie on Beck: "Chris Beck is a great kid, I am very excited
for him to have an opportunity to play here. I think he is going to add
some depth to us this spring and will give him a chance to compete." At Dean (Mass.) College: • Played for two seasons at Dean College in Franklin, Mass., for Todd Vasey • In his first season played in three games rushing for 273 yards on 56 attempts and four touchdowns • In his sophomore season played in seven games rushing for 212 yards on 39 attempts while recording two touchdowns At South Cobb: • Two-year starter at South Cobb High School in Georgia for coach Ed Koester • Captained his team in his senior season • Rushed for 1,622 yards on 216 carries his senior season notching 14 rushing TDs and 17 overall touchdowns • Also made 14 catches for 95 yards and three touchdowns • Helped South Cobb to the second round of the playoffs •
Rushed for 274 yards on 25 carries and three touchdowns, including a
game-clinching 12-yard scoring run against Northview in week three of
the regular season • Also a member of the track team posting career-best times of 10.93 (100m), 22.3 (200m) and 51.6 (400m) Personal: • Full Name: Chris E. Beck • Born: April 27, 1994 • Son of Arnesha Green and Chris Beck 11:24 a.m.
Elliott Berry
ELLIOTT BERRY HIGHLIGHTS Freshman • Athlete • 6-0 • 206 Fairburn, Ga./Creekside Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 3-star (No. 59 outside linebacker, No. 69 prospect in Ga.) ESPN: 3-star (No. 108 outside linebacker, No. 105 prospect in Ga.) Rivals: 3-star (No. 32 athlete, No. 45 prospect in Ga.) Scout: 3-star (No. 125 safety) Coach
Willie Martinez on Berry: "Elliott is a very physical player, he is
smart, has great instincts, and showed athleticism on both sides of the
ball. He also made a lot of plays this season for the state
championship for Creekside High School." At Creekside: • Lettered for Creekside High School in Canton, Ga. under coach Olten Downs • Named one of Reebok's Top 25 Most Dynamic Athletes • Georgia Class 5A All-State Linebacker in 2013 - Atlanta-Journal Constitution • Georgia Class 5A All-State Linebacker in 2013 - Associated Press • City/South Fulton All-Metro First Team • Selected as a 2011 U.S. Air Force Sophomore Second Team All-American • Led Creekside to a state championship and undefeated record as a senior Personal: • Full Name: Elliott Lee Berry • Born: November 4, 1995 • Son of Carol and James Berry • Twin brother to fellow Vol commit Evan Berry • Older brother, Eric, was an All-American for Tennessee and is a Pro Bowl safety with the Kansas City Chiefs • Father, James, played running back for the Vols from 1978-81, rushing for more than 1,700 yards and scoring 19 touchdowns 11:23 a.m.
Evan Berry
EVAN BERRY HIGHLIGHTS Freshman • Defensive Back • 5-11 • 196 Fairburn, Ga./Creekside Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 4-star (No. 28 athlete, No. 24 prospect in Ga.) ESPN: 4-star (No. 37 athlete, No. 26 prospect in Ga.) Rivals: 4-star (No. 22 defensive back, No. 23 prospect in Ga.) Scout: 4-star (No. 28 defensive back) Coach
Willie Martinez on Berry: "A great all-around athlete that can play
multiple positions but he will be an outstanding player for us on
defense because of his versatility. Evan can play any position on
defense for us in the back end." At Creekside: • Lettered at Creekside High School in Canton, Ga., for coach Olten Downs • Named one of Reebok's Top 25 Most Dynamic Athletes • Class 5A All-State first team defensive back • Directed Creekside to an undefeated record and state championship as a defensive back and quarterback • 2013 Georgia Class 5A 100-meter dash champion Personal: • Full Name: Evan Lawrence Berry • Born: November 4, 1995 • Son of Carol and James Berry • Twin brother to fellow Vol commit Elliott Berry • Older brother, Eric, was an All-American for Tennessee and is a Pro Bowl safety with the Kansas City Chiefs • Father, James, played running back for the Vols from 1978-81, rushing for more than 1,700 yards and scoring 19 touchdowns Dontavius Blair
BLAIR FEATURE Junior • Offensive Line • 6-8 • 300 Anniston, Ala./Anniston/Garden City (Kansas) C.C. Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 4-star (No. 8 JUCO prospect, No. 4 offensive tackle, No. 2 prospect in Kansas) ESPN: 4-star (No. 26 JUCO prospect, No. 6 offensive tackle) Rivals: 4-star Scout: 4-star Coach
Don Mahoney on Blair: "Dontavius has a tremendous attitude and high
character. He is very mature and experienced having played two seasons
in junior college. He is a perfect fit for what we are looking for in a
tackle." At Garden City C.C.: • Two-year starter at Garden City Community College in Garden City, Kansas, playing for Matt Miller • 2013 First Team All-Conference in the Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference • Played in the Football Capital Bowl of Kansas in 2013 • Played and started all 17 games in his junior college career • Helped Broncbusters to 2012 KJCCC Semifinals At Anniston: • Four-year starter at Anniston High School in Alabama for coach Eddie Bullock • First Team Class 4A All-State as a senior • Helped pave the way for the state's leading rusher (Troymaine Pope), who gained 2,539 yards and scored 31 touchdowns • Graded out 93 percent on the offensive line • Started 50 career games on the offensive line • Posted more than 200 pancake blocks in his prep career • Also played basketball and averaged 9.5 points and 10.0 rebounds as a senior Personal: • Full Name: Dontavius Q. Blair • Born: Oct. 25, 1993 • Son of Kim Blair and Lorenzo Swink 8:37 p.m.
Gavin Bryant
BRYANT HIGHLIGHTS Freshman • Inside Linebacker • 6-0 • 233 Jackson, Ala./Jackson Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 4-star (No. 11 inside linebacker, No. 9 prospect in Ala.) ESPN: 4-star (No. 10 inside linebacker, No. 10 prospect in Ala.) Rivals: 4-star (No. 17 inside linebacker, No. 14 prospect in Ala.) Scout: 4-star (No. 10 inside linebacker)
Coach
Tommy Thigpen on Bryant: "Gavin is a vicious hitter. He is one of the
most dominant players in Alabama and can play in space. Gavin has the
ability to be Al Wilson-like."
At Jackson: • Lettered at Jackson High School in Jackson, Ala. for coach Danny Powell • 2013 ASWA Class 5A All-State linebacker • 2012 ASWA Class 5A All-State honorable mention • Helped team to the Alabama Class 4A state championship in 2011 • Had 60 tackles and nine sacks in his senior campaign • Recorded 110 tackles and eight sacks as a junior Personal: • Full Name: Gavin O'Shea Bryant • Born: May 1, 1995 • Son of Lucretia Brown and Gary Bryant Neiko Creamer
CREAMER FEATURE Freshman • Wide Receiver • 6-3• 223 Wilmington, Del./Eastern Christian Academy (Md.) Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 3-star (No. 58 athlete, No. 18 prospect in Maryland) ESPN: 3-star (No. 121 wide receiver, No. 20 prospect in Maryland) Rivals: 3-star (No. 29 athlete, No. 15 prospect in Maryland) Scout: 3-star (No. 33 tight end) Coach
Zach Azzanni on Creamer: "Neiko is a big athlete that can do a variety
of things. He loves the game and understands Tennessee football. We are
excited to have him as a part of what we are building."
At Eastern Christian Academy: • Played at Eastern Christian Academy in Elkton, Maryland for coach Dwayne Thomas • Named Second Team All-State as a senior wide receiver • Helped Honey Badgers to 9-3 record as a senior • Also played basketball for the Honey Badgers Personal: • Full Name: Neiko Donovan Creamer • Born on March 5, 1995 • Son of Tawana and Andre Creamer •
Father Andre was a four-year letterman for the Vols from 1984-87,
making 120 tackles and recording six interceptions as a defensive back;
also starred as a punt returner at UT
11:11 a.m.
Bryson Durden
DURDEN HIGHLIGHTS Freshman • Defensive Back • 5-10 • 170 McDonough, Ga./Eagles Landing Christian Academy Coach
Martinez on Durden: "Bryson comes from a great program in Eagles
Landing Christian and his athleticism is something. Another all-around
athlete. I love his versatility."
At Eagles Landing Christian Academy: • Lettered at Eagles Landing Christian Academy in McDonough, Ga., for coach Jonathan Gess • Honored as All-Region in 5-A as a senior in 2013 • Named to 2013 Henry Daily Herald All-County Second Team • Racked up 56 tackles along with two interceptions and two defensive touchdowns • Helped Chargers to an 11-1 record as a senior in 2013, reaching Georgia private school semifinals • Won 2012 private school title with the Chargers • Starred in track and field Personal: • Full Name: Joseph Bryson Durden • Born: Aug. 25, 1995 • Son of Mylora and Barry Durden 8:22 a.m.
Rashaan Gaulden
GAULDEN HIGHLIGHTS Freshman • Defensive Back • 6-1 • 178 Spring Hill, Tenn./Independence Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 3-star (No. 34 safety, No. 9 prospect in Tenn.) ESPN: 3-star (No. 60 safety, No. 18 prospect in Tenn.) Rivals: 4-star (No. 21 safety, No. 6 prospect in Tenn.) Scout: 3-star (No. 94 safety) Coach
Willie Martinez on Gaulden: "Rashaan is a great player, he is a very
competitive and physical competitor. He was an outstanding athlete that
played both offense and defense and also has tremendous leadership
skills."
At Independence: • Lettered at Independence High School in Spring Hill, Tenn. under head coach Scott Blade • Member of The Tennessean's 2013 Dandy Dozen • 2013 First Team All-Midstate defensive back • 2013 Class 6A All-State selection as a defensive back • Played in the Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl following his senior season • Recorded 193 total tackles including 117 solo tackles, an average of 14.8 tackles per game in his senior season •
Named All-American in track and field after finishing fourth nationally
in the 4x400 relay at the U.S. Track and Field Junior Olympics • High School teammate of fellow Vol commit Vic Wharton Personal: • Full Name: Rashaan Malik Gaulden • Born: January 23, 1995 • Son of Cassandra and Reynold Gaulden Daniel Helm
HELM FEATURE Freshman • Tight End • 6-4 • 225 Chatham, Ill./Glenwood Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 4-star (No. 4 tight end, No. 7 prospect in Illinois) ESPN: 4-star (No. 7 tight end, No. 11 prospect in Illinois) Rivals: 4-star (No. 1 tight end, No. 5 prospect in Illinois) Scout: 4-star (No. 3 tight end) Coach
Mark Elder on Helm: "Daniel is a great receiving threat and has
demonstrated good physicality. He will bring a new dynamic to the
position in the passing game. We expect Daniel to come in and compete
for a role in our offense immediately."
At Glenwood: • Lettered at Glenwood High School in Chatham, Illinois for coach Dan Rourke • Played in the 2014 Offense-Defense All-American Bowl • Named to Chicago Tribune All-State Second Team in 2013 • Honored with the Midwest's `Chip Of The Old Block' award and Rotary Lombardi Award • Had a 5.3 grade point average in high school • Set school record with 35 receiving touchdowns in his prep career • Hauled in 35 catches for 565 yards and 13 touchdowns as a senior • On defense, played strong safety and made 68 tackles, also recording an interception and four pass break-ups • Helped Titans to an 8-3 record as a senior • As a junior, had 44 receptions for 821 yards with 17 touchdowns • Also played basketball for the Titans Personal: • Full Name: Daniel Stephen Helm • Born: April 20, 1995 in Los Angeles • Son of Steve and Christy Helm 11:06 a.m.
Joe Henderson
HENDERSON HIGHLIGHTS Freshman • Defensive End • 6-3 • 222 Shaker Heights, Ohio/Shaker Heights Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 4-star (No. 18 weakside defensive end, No. 21 prospect in Ohio) ESPN: 3-star (No. 44 defensive end, No. 20 prospect in Ohio) Rivals: 4-star (No. 17 weakside defensive end, No. 15 prospect in Ohio) Scout: 3-star (No. 74 defensive end) Coach
Steve Stripling on Henderson: "Joe has outstanding quickness and will
add length to the defensive front. He has good burst and will develop
into an edge presence."
At Shaker Heights: • Played at Shaker Heights High School in Ohio for head coach Jarvis Gibson • Participated in The Opening 2013, showcasing the nation's elite prospects • Named to the Associated Press All-Ohio Second Team in 2013 • Named First Team Northeast Lakes All-District as a senior • Earned Cleveland First Team All-Star as a senior • Racked up 14.5 sacks as a senior and finished with 23.5 in his career • Made 52 tackles (21 for loss) as a senior in leading Raiders to first playoff berth since 2005 • Forced three fumbles and had seven passes defended in 2013 Personal: • Full Name: Joseph Lavelle Henderson • Born: July 7, 1996 • Son of Joe and Tracy Henderson 8:58 a.m.
Dewayne Hendrix
HENDRIX HIGHLIGHTS Freshman • Defensive End • 6-3 • 252 O'Fallon, Ill./O'Fallon Township Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 4-star (No. 8 strongside defensive end, No. 4 prospect in Illinois) ESPN: 4-star (No. 18 defensive end, No. 8 prospect in Illinois) Rivals: 4-star (No. 100 national prospect, No. 6 defensive end, No. 3 prospect in Illinois) Scout: 4-star (No. 14 defensive end) Coach
Steve Stripling on Hendrix: "Dewayne is big and athletic. He runs wells
and is effective all over the field. He has the tools to be a
disruptive edge presence for the defense."
At O'Fallon Township: • Lettered at O'Fallon Township High School in O'Fallon, Ill. for head coach Brandon Joggerst • Participated in the 2013 Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl • Chicago Tribune Second Team All-State selection • 2013 American Family Insurance All-USA Illinois Football Team defensive lineman • Had 60 tackles including 9.0 tackles for a loss as a senior while also recording eight sacks • Also had 60 tackles as a junior in 2012, including 7.0 tackles for a loss Personal: • Full Name: Dewayne Hendrix • Born: June 13, 1995 • Son of Denise Joy Jalen Hurd
HURD FEATURE Freshman • Running Back • 6-3 • 227 Hendersonville, Tenn./Beech Senior Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 5-star (No. 33 national prospect, No. 4 athlete, No. 1 prospect in Tennessee) ESPN: 4-star (No. 62 national prospect, No. 7 running back, No. 4 prospect in Tennessee) Rivals: 5-star (No. 28 national prospect, No. 5 running back, No. 2 prospect in Tennessee) Scout: 4-star (No. 11 running back) Coach
Robert Gillespie on Hurd: "Jalen is a Tennessee-bred kid. It's always
great to coach a kid who understands the pride of the state that he's
playing for. His unique blend of speed and power will give him a chance
to help us at running back immediately."
At Beech Senior: • Lettered at Beech Senior High School in Hendersonville, Tenn., for coach Anthony Crabtree • Played in the 2014 U.S. Army All-American Game • Played in one game as a senior before suffering a shoulder injury that ended his 2013 season prematurely • Ran for 177 yards and three touchdowns on offense and had eight tackles and an interception in his lone prep game of 2013 • Named Tennessee State Mr. Football in 2012 • Earned First Team All-State from Tennessee Sports Writers as a junior • As a junior in 2012, ran for Tennessee state-record 3,357 yards and 43 touchdowns • Set Tennessee state record with 294 points scored as a junior • Averaged 240 yards per game and 10.58 yards per carry in 2012 • Gained more than 200 yards in nine games as a junior, including three games with at least 390 yards on the ground • Piled up single-game rushing totals of 451, 396 and 394 as a junior •
Ran for Tennessee title-game records of 394 yards and seven touchdowns
in 2012 championship, a 56-35 Beech win over Columbia Central • Led Beech to 2012 state title with a perfect 15-0 record Personal: • Full Name: Jalen Tyler Hurd • Born: January 23, 1996 • Son of Tara Smotherman and Jay Hurd Jakob Johnson
JOHNSON FEATURE Freshman • Linebacker • 6-4 • 240 Stuttgart, Germany./Jean Ribault (Fla.) Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 4-star (No. 12 inside linebacker, No. 35 prospect in Florida) ESPN: 3-star (No. 50 inside linebacker) Rivals: 3-star Scout: 3-star (No. 45 inside linebacker) Coach
Tommy Thigpen on Johnson: "Jakob is a smart and tough player who has
high character and all of the measurables to be a great SEC linebacker."
At Jean Ribault: • Played one season of high school football at Jean Ribault High School in Jacksonville, Florida for coach Anthony Flynn • Second Team All-Coast by the Florida Times-Union in 2013 • Named a Florida Times-Union Super 24, the top recruits of 2013 • Racked up 112 tackles, 15 tackles for a loss and six sacks in first year of American football • Helped Trojans to 7-4 record as a senior Personal: • Full Name: Jakob Elijah Johnson • Born: December 15, 1994 in Stuttgart, Germany • Moved to United States in July 2012 • Son of Calvin and Ann-Charlotte Johnson Colton Jumper
Freshman • Linebacker • 6-2 • 220 Lookout Mountain, Tenn./Baylor School/The Hun School Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 2-star Scout: 2-star Coach
Tommy Thigpen on Jumper: "Colton is a really athletic player who can
help us out on special teams in his first year in my opinion. I can see
him winning a scholarship in the future."
• Spent a post-graduate year at The Hun School in Princeton, N.J. At Baylor School: • Lettered at Baylor School in Chattanooga, Tenn. for coach Phil Massey •
Finished his high school career with 251 tackles, 39 TFL, 22 sacks, 2
interceptions, caused 5 fumbles, recovered 2 fumbles and blocked 1 FG
in his high school career • Finished his senior season with 131
tackles, 19 TFL, eight sacks, two interceptions, two forced fumbles,
two fumble recoveries and a blocked field goal • Earned Tennessee Div. II-AA all-state honors during his junior and senior seasons • Selected to the Toyota Tennessee Football All-Star Classic • 2012 TNVarsity All-Classification All-State team Personal: • Full Name: Colton Jay Jumper • Born: November 26, 1994 • Son of Jay and Dawn Jumper 7:11 a.m.
Todd Kelly Jr.
KELLY JR. HIGHLIGHTS Freshman • Defensive Back • 6-0 • 195 Knoxville, Tenn./Webb School Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 4-star (No. 68 national prospect, No. 6 safety, No. 3 prospect in Tenn.) ESPN: 4-star (No. 84 national prospect, No. 5 safety, No. 3 prospect in Tenn.) Rivals: 4-star (No. 71 national prospect, No. 9 safety, No. 4 prospect in Tenn.) Scout: 4-star (No. 14 safety) Coach
Willie Martinez on Kelly Jr.: "Todd is a winner all of his life, a
three-time state champion, and a Gatorade Player of the Year. I love
his physicality and his play making ability and we will be leaning on
his leadership qualities this upcoming season."
At Webb School: • Lettered at Webb School in Knoxville, Tenn., for head coach David Meske • 2013 Gatorade State Player of the Year for Tennessee • Tennessee Titans Division II-A Mr. Football in both 2012, 2013 • 2013 U.S. Army All-American Bowl selection • 2012 Knoxville News Sentinel's Defensive Player of the Year • Two-time TSWA All-State selection • Played both defensive back and running back for Webb • Led Spartans to Division II-A State Championship in 2013 •
As a senior leader had 53 tackles, one sack and two interceptions to go
along with 1,014 rushing yards and 23 total touchdowns on offense • Named BlueCross Bowl Offensive MVP as he ran for more than 250 yards and scored three touchdowns in the championship game •
As a junior, recorded 72 tackles and three interceptions on defense and
carried the ball 99 times for 1,120 yards and 23 touchdowns while also
scoring five receiving touchdowns Personal: • Full Name: Todd Eric Kelly, Jr. • Born: Octpber 9, 1995 • Son of Renee and Todd Kelly Sr. •
Father, Todd Kelly Sr., was a star for the Vols in the early 1990s and
played four seasons in the NFL for the San Francisco 49ers, Cincinnati
Bengals and Atlanta Falcons
Josh Malone
MALONE FEATURE Freshman • Wide Receiver • 6-3 • 195 Gallatin, Tenn./Station Camp Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 4-star (No. 46 national prospect, No. 5 wide receiver, No. 2 prospect in Tenn.) ESPN: 4-star (No. 48 national prospect, No. 6 wide receiver, No. 1 prospect in Tenn.) Rivals: 5-star (No. 20 national prospect, No. 2 wide receiver, No. 2 prospect in Tenn.) Scout: 4-star (No. 10 wide receiver) Coach
Zach Azzanni on Malone: "I'm extremely excited to coach Josh. The sky
is the limit for his potential. He is incredibly competitive with the
mindset and skill set to compete at the highest level."
At Station Camp: • Lettered at Station Camp High School in Gallatin, Tennessee for coach Shaun Hollinsworth • Played in 2014 U.S. Army All-American Game • Participated in The Opening 2013, showcasing the nation's elite prospects • Named Tennessee Mr. Football in 2013 • Earned First Team All-State honors from Tennessee Sports Writers Association as a senior • Member of The Tennessean Dandy Dozen •
Scored 31 touchdowns as a senior in 2013, scoring TDs four different
ways (receiving, rushing, kickoff return and interception return) • Piled up 71 receptions for 1,404 yards and 19 receiving touchdowns as a senior • Ran for 246 yards on 22 carries and five touchdowns as a senior • Also averaged 26 yards per kickoff return including a pair of returns for touchdowns in 2013 • Helped Bison to 9-3 record and playoff berth as a senior in 2013 Personal: • Full Name: Joshua Khiry Malone • Born: March 21, 1996 • Son of Cordell and Rebecca Malone 10:58 a.m.
Cortez McDowell
McDOWELL HIGHLIGHTS Freshman • Defensive Back • 6-1 • 201 Locust Grove, Ga./Locust Grove Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 4-star (No. 12 safety, No. 13 prospect in Ga.) ESPN: 4-star (No. 11 safety, No 14 prospect in Ga.) Rivals: 4-star (No. 30 safety, No. 26 prospect in Ga.) Scout: 4-star (No. 19 safety) Coach
Willie Martinez on McDowell: "Another all-around athlete, I like his
athleticism, physicality and also his leadership qualities. I look for
physicality in players. He has it."
At Locust Grove: • Lettered at Locust Grove High School in Locus Grove, Ga., for head coach Clint Satterfield • Played in 2013 Offense-Defense All-American Bowl in Orlando • Rated No. 1 safety in Georgia • Georgia Class 4A All-State Defensive Back in 2013 by the Atlanta Journal Constitution • Georgia Class 4A All-State Defensive Back in 2013 by the Associated Press • Georgia Sportswriters All-State First Team defensive back as a senior • Named Atlanta Journal Constitution All-Metro in 2013 • Compiled 92 total tackles including 48 solo tackles in his senior campaign • Made 56 total tackles, 42 of which were solo tackles in junior season • Intercepted five passes and forced four fumbles in his prep career • On offense, had 43 catches for 516 yards with seven receiving touchdowns as a senior • Also ran for 251 yards in high school, scoring three rushing touchdowns Personal: • Full Name: Cortez D'Angelo McDowell • Born: April 11, 1996 • Son of Deborah McDowell 8:31 p.m.
Aaron Medley
MEDLEY HIGHLIGHTS Freshman • Kicker • 6-2 • 173 Lewisburg, Tenn./Marshall County Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 3-star (No. 4 kicker, No. 20 prospect in Tenn.) ESPN: 3-star (No. 1 kicker, No. 14 prospect in Tenn.) Rivals: 3-star (No. 4 kicker, No. 17 prospect in Tenn.) Scout: 3-star Coach
Mark Elder on Medley: "Aaron is a very talented kicker. He has a strong
leg to kick the ball deep into the endzone on kickoffs. He gets
tremendous lift on field goals and combines accuracy with strength to
make him a valuable weapon for us in the future. We expect Aaron to
compete for the starting position the day he steps on campus."
At Marshall County: • Lettered at Marshall County High School in Lewisburg, Tenn. for head coach Aaron Pitts • Played in the 2013 Under Armour All-American Game • 2013 MaxPreps Preseason All American Team • 2013 Tennessee Class AA Mr. Football Finalist • 2013 District 12 AA Special Teams Player of the Year • 2013 All-MidState First Team by the Tennessean • 2013 Varsity All Super Region Punter • Made a 65-yard field goal in 2013 Kohl's Kicking Southern Showcase • As a senior, connected on three-of-six field goals, making 33-of-35 extra points; punted 33 times for a 37.2 average • Also kicked off 52 times, reach endzone 46 times for touchbacks • 2012 Varsity All Super Region Kicker • 2012 All-MidState First Team by the Tennessean • 2012 Kohl's Kicking All American Team First Team Class of 2014 • 2012 MaxPreps Medium Schools All-American Second Team • Punted 44 times for 40.4 average as a junior; also made three field goals and 27-of-30 extra points • 2011 Varsity All Super Region Kicker • 2010 Varsity All Super Region Kicker Personal: • Full Name: Aaron W. Medley • Born: August 8, 1995 • Son of Sheila and Richard Medley Dimarya Mixon
MIXON FEATURE Freshman • Defensive End • 6-3 • 263 Compton, Calif./West Mesquite (Texas) Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 3-star (No. 43 defensive tackle, No. 69 prospect in Texas) Scout: 3-star Coach
Steve Stripling on Mixon: "Dimarya has athletic ability, size, and
plays with great effort. He is explosive and uses his hands very well.
He is a motivated young man who we hope can contribute quickly."
At West Mesquite: • Played at West Mesquite High School in Mesquite, Texas for coach Mike Overton • Graduated in 2012 and originally signed with Nebraska in 2013 • First Team All-District as a senior in 2012 • As a senior, made 48 tackles, including 12 tackles for a loss and two sacks • Also had 11 quarterback hurries to help team to an 8-3 record and Class 4A state playoffs • In 2011, as a junior, had 35 tackles with three tackles for a loss and a fumble recovery along with 11 quarterback pressures Personal: • Full Name: Dimarya Artiel Derrell Mixon • Named pronounced: duh-mar-EE-a • Born: March 10, 1995 • Son of Tasha Mixon Emmanuel Moseley
MOSELEY FEATURE Freshman • Defensive Back • 5-11 • 165 Greensboro, N.C./Dudley Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 3-star (No. 61 cornerback, No. 29 prospect in North Carolina) ESPN: 3-star (No. 34 cornerback, No. 31 prospect in North Carolina) Rivals: 3-star Scout: 3-star (No. 87 cornerback) Coach
Willie Martinez on Moseley: "Emmanuel led his team to the state
championship as a quarterback. I love his athleticism as a two-way
player. He has tremendous ball skills and is very competitive. He was
the best player on the best team in the state of North Carolina, and
that shows his drive to win."
At Dudley: • Lettered at Dudley High School in Greensboro, N.C., for coach Stephen Davis • Played in 2014 Offense-Defense All-American Bowl • Named Defensive MVP in 77th Shrine Game in December 2013 • Earned Associated Press All-State honors in North Carolina as an Athlete in 2013 • Helped Panthers to perfect 15-0 record in 2013 and the North Carolina Class 4-A Championship • Named North Carolina State Championship Game Outstanding Offensive Player • Earned Greensboro News & Record 2013 Player of the Year • Metro 4-A Offensive Player of the Year in 2013 • Named Conference 9 Offensive Player of the Year as a senior • Played on both sides of the ball, running spread option offense at quarterback and at cornerback • Ran for 1,443 yards and threw for 1,370 yards through the air • Accounted for 47 total touchdowns • Made 28 tackles and had four interceptions on defense, aiding Panthers in allowing just 7.5 points per game on defense • Also played basketball at Dudley Personal: • Full Name: Emmanuel LaMurel Moseley • Born: March 25, 1996 • Son of Darrell and Latoya Moseley 9:24 a.m.
Charles Mosley
MOSLEY HIGHLIGHTS Freshman • Defensive Lineman/Offensive Lineman • 6-5 • 362 Brighton, Tenn./Brighton Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 4-star (No. 27 defensive tackle, No. 7 prospect in Tenn.) ESPN: 3-star (No. 43 defensive tackle, No. 11 prospect in Tenn.) Rivals: 3-star (No. 21 defensive tackle, No. 11 prospect in Tenn.) Scout: 4-star (No. 27 defensive tackle) Coach
Steve Stripling on Mosley: "Charles has presence and personality. He is
a physical lineman on both sides of the ball. Charles has exceptional
size combined with athletic ability. He is vocal and will be a leader
in the future."
At Brighton: • Lettered at Brighton High School in Brighton, Tenn. for head coach Will Wolfe • Selected to play in Offense-Defense All-American Bowl in Orlando • Mr. Football Class AAA Finalist for lineman in 2013 • Invited to the Offense-Defense All-American Bowl • 2013 Div. 6A All-State Selection • Racked up 20 tackles for loss including eight sacks, also forced four fumbles and recovered two fumbles Personal: • Full Name: Charles Deangelo Mosley • Born: August 26, 1996 • Son of Janey and Jeffrey Mosley • Shaved "UT Vols" and a checkerboard into his hair to show his commitment to Tennessee 8:51 a.m.
Treyvon Paulk
PAULK HIGHLIGHTS Freshmen • Running Back • 5-8 • 195 Alpharetta, Ga./Milton Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 3-star (No. 29 running back, No. 37 prospect in Ga.) ESPN: 4-star (No. 34 running back, No. 33 prospect in Ga.) Rivals: 3-star (No. 11 running back, No. 31 prospect in Ga.) Scout: 3-star (No. 50 running back) Coach
Robert Gillespie on Paulk: "Treyvon is a tough, hard-nosed kid. He is
very football smart and he has the frame to be able to come into this
league and have an instant impact on this offense.
At Milton: • Lettered at Milton High School in Milton, Ga. for head coach Howie Decristofaro • Suffered a knee injury in September that ended his 2013 season prematurely, after just four games • Ran for 227 yards and three touchdowns in 2013 opener vs. Alpharetta to earn Neighbor Newspaper's Player of Week • Tallied four touchdowns in win over Johns Creek • Prior to injury, was on the GHSF Daily's Player of the Year watch list • Ran for 1,200 yards and 19 touchdowns in his junior season Personal: • Full Name: Treyvon Paulk • Born: October 30, 1994 • Son of Melissa Watts and Nicky Paulk D'Andre Payne
PAYNE FEATURE Freshman • Defensive Back • 5-9 • 176 Washington, D.C./H.D. Woodson Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 4-star (No. 18 cornerback, No. 2 prospect in District of Columbia) ESPN: 4-star (No. 21 cornerback, No. 2 prospect in District of Columbia) Rivals: 4-star (No. 19 cornerback, No. 2 prospect in District of Columbia) Scout: 4-star (No. 22 cornerback)
Coach
Willie Martinez on Payne: "D'Andre is a tremendous athlete who plays
with a competitive spirit. He was the Gatorade Player of the Year in
Washington D.C. and is a winner. He comes in with a championship
pedigree as his team won the D.C. title. He has amazing speed and ball
skills which he demonstrated playing on both sides of the football."
At H.D. Woodson: • Played at H.D. Woodson High School in Washington, D.C., for coach Steven Scott • Named 2013 Gatorade Football Player of the Year in Washington D.C. • Member of ESPN 300 • First Team All-Met selection by the Washington Post in 2012 and 2013 • First Team All-Conference pick as a junior and senior • Played on both sides of the ball at Woodson and accounted for 11 touchdowns in 2013 • Made 70 tackles and recorded four interceptions as a senior • Ran for 356 yards, threw for 94 yards and hauled in 16 catches for 396 yards as a senior • Led Warriors to District of Columbia State Association Championship, finishing with 11-3 record in 2013 •
Named MVP of the 44th Turkey Bowl with a 60-yard touchdown reception.
Also set up touchdowns with an interception and a long punt return • Named MVP of the DCSAA State Championship game with a 54-yard touchdown • As a junior, scored on offense, defense, and special teams including four punt returns for touchdowns • Had four interceptions as a junior in 2012 Personal: • Full Name: D'Andre Tyree Payne • Born: May 17, 1996 • Son of Walter and Amy Payne and Marquise and Ashia Dohawk • As a 10-year old in 2006, won gold medal in U.S. Track and Field Junior Olympics in the 200-meter Von Pearson
PEARSON FEATURE R-Junior • Wide Receiver • 6-3 • 185 Newport News, Va./Denbigh/Feather River (Calif.) College Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 4-star (No. 4 overall prospect, No. 2 wide receiver, No. 2 prospect in Calif.) ESPN: 4-star (No. 2 overall prospect, No. 2 wide receiver) Rivals: 4-star Scout: 4-star Coach
Zach Azzanni on Pearson: "Von was as productive of a player as there
was in all of junior college football this past season. He brings
instant help as a threat on the outside to our offense."
At Feather River: • Starred at Feather River College in Quincy, Calif., for coach J.D. Johnson • Earned California Community College Football Coaches Association First Team All-America Honors • CCCFCA All-California Most Valuable Player • Offensive MVP of the Mid-Empire Conference • Named First Team All-Conference in the Mid-Empire Conference in 2012 and 2013 • Posted national-leading 93 receptions for 1,601 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2013 • Had more than 200 receiving yards in a game on five occasions, including single-game totals of 311, 237, 235, 222 and 201 • Racked up career-best and school records with 311 receiving yards on 19 receptions with three touchdowns vs. Sierra (9/14/13) •
Holds or shares every Feather River receiving record, including
single-season receptions (93), career receptions (132), single-season
receiving yards (1,601), career receiving yards (2,358), single-season
touchdowns (12) and career touchdowns (22) • In 2012, had 39 catches for 757 yards and 10 touchdowns At Denbigh: • Played at Denbigh High School in Newport News, Va., for coach Tracy Harrod, graduating in 2010 • Earned First Team All-Peninsula honors as a receiver and second-team as a defensive back in his senior year • Named Daily Press Offensive All-Star as a senior in 2009 • Led area receivers with 50 receptions for 880 yards and seven touchdowns • Honored with All-District accolades in 2009 • Played basketball with the Patriots Personal: Full name: LaVon Terrell Pearson Born: June 23, 1991 Son of Jessie Lewis Ray Raulerson
RAULERSON FEATURE Freshman • Offensive Line • 6-5 • 275 Tampa, Fla./Plant Senior Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 3-star (No. 83 offensive tackle, No. 123 prospect in Florida) ESPN: 3-star (No. 113 offensive tackle, No. 191 prospect in Florida) Rivals: 3-star (No. 54 offensive tackle, No. 77 prospect in Florida) Scout: 3-star (No. 53 offensive tackle, No. 77 prospect in Florida) Coach
Don Mahoney on Raulerson: "Ray is an athletic, tough and smart player.
He is versatile and can play both guard and center. He comes from a
successful program and is used to winning. He understands that time
that goes into being a winner, and he is very driven and mentally
strong."
At Plant Senior: • Played at Plant High School in Tampa, Florida for coach Robert Weiner • Helped Panthers to Florida 8A Semifinals with an 11-2-1 record as a senior in 2013 • Aided Plant to almost 400 yards of offense per game in 2013 • Named First Team All-County by Tampa Bay Times as a senior • Honorable Mention All-County by Tampa Bay Times in 2012 as a junior Personal: • Full Name: Raymond A. Raulerson • Born: Sept. 6, 1995 • Son of Sam and Beth Raulerson 9:11 a.m.
Jashon Robertson
ROBERTSON HIGHLIGHTS Freshman • Defensive Line/Offensive Line • 6-3 • 306 Nashville, Tenn./Montgomery Bell Academy Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 3-star (No. 29 offensive guard, No. 10 prospect in Tenn.) ESPN: 3-star (No. 45 defensive tackle, No. 12 prospect in Tenn.) Rivals: 3-star (No. 13 prospect in Tenn.) Scout: 3-star (No. 78 defensive tackle) Coach
Steve Stripling on Robertson: "Jashon is a self-motivated, extremely
hard working athlete. He is very physical and controls the interior of
a defensive line. His size and strength enable him to be a force up
front."
At Montgomery Bell Academy • Played at Montgomery Bell Academy in Nashville, Tenn., for Marty Euverard • Two-way standout as a defensive tackle and offensive guard for MBA • First-Team Tennessean All-Midstate selection as a senior in 2013 • Named to The Tennessean's Dandy Dozen as one of the top 12 players in the Midstate • Helped Big Red to a 10-2 record as a senior • Posted 74 tackles including 14 for a loss in 2013 • Also had four sacks and five passes defended as a senior Personal: • Full Name: Jashon LaQuinn Robertson • Born: March 21, 1996 • Son of Monica Robertson 10:10 a.m.
Michael Sawyers
SAWYERS HIGHLIGHTS Freshman • Defensive Lineman • 6-3 • 300 Antioch, Tenn./Ensworth Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 4-star (No. 28 defensive tackle, No. 8 prospect in Tenn.) ESPN: 4-star (No. 24 defensive tackle, No. 6 prospect in Tenn.) Rivals: 4-star (No. 16 defensive tackle, No. 7 prospect in Tenn.) Scout: 3-star (No. 56 defensive tackle) Coach
Steve Stripling on Sawyers: "Michael comes with a winning character
after being part of four state championships. He was very effective on
both sides of the ball and will be an outstanding defensive tackle. He
is physical at point of attack and he has the ability to pursue."
At Ensworth: • Letterd at Ensworth High School in Nashville, Tenn. for head coach Ricky Bowers • Finalist for the 2013 DII-AA Mr. Football Lineman Award • Helped Ensworth to four-straight state championship titles during his career •
Named the Defensive MVP of the state championship game his senior
season finishing the game with 3.5 tackles, 1.5 sacks for 11 yards and
a forced fumble • Member of The Tennessean's Dandy Dozen as one of the top 12 players in the Midstate • 2013 First Team All-Midstate as defensive lineman • Racked up 104 tackles, 24 tackles for loss, 11.5 sacks and a forced fumble during his career at Ensworth • Tallied 33 tackles, 7 tackles for loss and five sacks as a senior Personal: • Full Name: Michael B. Sawyers • Born: October 25, 1995 • Son of Latoya Davis 8:25 a.m.
Derrell Scott
SCOTT HIGHLIGHTS Freshman • Running Back • 5-11 • 179 Havelock, N.C./Havelock Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 4-star (No. 3 all-purpose back, No. 6 prospect in N.C.) ESPN: 4-star (No. 11 running back, No. 8 prospect in N.C.) Rivals: 4-star (No. 9 all-purpose back, No. 7 prospect in N.C.) Scout: 4-star (No. 17 running back) Coach
Robert Gillespie on Scott: "Derrell is a dynamic playmaker, a proven
winner, and brings versatility to the backfield as far as catching the
ball out of the backfield and making plays once he is in space."
At Havelock: • Four-year letterman at Havelock High School in Havelock, N.C. for head coach Jim Bryant • Invited to the Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl • Associated Press 2013 All-State running back selection • 2013 Sun Journal Player of the Year • Named NCPreps All-State and Mr. 3A Football as a senior • Led team to three state championships in a row from sophomore to senior seasons • MVP of 2013 state championship game after rushing for 209 yards and three touchdowns • Set Class 3A Championship game record with a 96-yard rushing touchdown • Ran for 6,145 yards and 87 rushing touchdowns in his high school career • Averaged 99.1 yards per game in prep career with 9.43 yards per rush • Rushed for 2,147 yards and 25 touchdowns as a senior • Helped his team to a combined 58-5 record in high school • As a junior, ran for 1,742 yards and 34 touchdowns • Piled up 1,807 yards and 22 touchdowns as a sophomore • Had 46 catches for 637 yards in his high school career with five receiving touchdowns • Also 22 kickoffs for 477 yards in his four seasons Personal: • Full Name: Derrell Anthony Scott • Born: October 25, 1995 • Son of Deborah and John Scott Coleman Thomas
THOMAS FEATURE Freshman • Offensive Line • 6-6 • 299 Max Meadows, Va./Fort Chiswell Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 3-star (No. 8 center, No. 23 prospect in Virginia) ESPN: 3-star (No. 10 center, No. 29 prospect in Virginia) Rivals: 3-star (No. 9 center, No. 14 prospect in Virginia) Scout: 3-star (No. 5 center)
Coach
Don Mahoney on Thomas: "Coleman is extremely athletic and played very
physical as a senior. He has tremendous potential to play every
position across the line. He has great size and strength. We are very
excited about his mental makeup and his maturity."
At Fort Chiswell: • Played at Fort Chiswell High School in Max Meadows, Va., for coach Stephen James • Helped Pioneers to 12-2 record as a senior and playoff berth in 2013 • Played on both sides of the ball, earning Region 1A West Defensive Player of the Year as a senior • Earned Offensive and Defensive Lineman of the Year honors in Region 1A as a senior • First Team All-Region on both offense and defense as a senior in 2013 • Named First Team All-Timesland offensive lineman after junior year in 2012 • Named All-Southwest Virginia Honorable Mention center as a sophomore in 2011 •
Earned Second Team All-Region as a linebacker in 2011 after sophomore
season and Honorable Mention All-Region as a center that season • Starred on the basketball court, earning First Team All-County as a junior in 2013 • Also pitched for the Fort Chiswell baseball team Personal: • Full Name: James Coleman Thomas • Born: March 6, 1996 • Son of Richie and Kyle Thomas 10:15 a.m.
Chris Weatherd
WEATHERD HIGHLIGHTS Junior • Linebacker • 6-4 • 225 Carrollton, Texas/Creekview/Trinity Valley C.C. Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 4-star (No. 19 overall prospect, No. 1 outside linebacker, No. 1 prospect in Texas) ESPN: 3-star (No. 29 overall prospect, No. 2 outside linebacker) Rivals: 4-star Scout: 4-star Coach
Tommy Thipgen on Weatherd: "Chris is a natural pass rusher that brings
a unique trait in rushing the passer. He hasn't stood up before but he
will be utilized a lot on third down."
At Trinity Valley C.C. • Played two seasons at Trinity Valley Community College in Athens, Texas for coach Brad Smiley • Helped Cardinals to Southwest Junior College Football Conference Championship in 2013 • Won the C.H.A.M.P.S. Heart of Texas Bowl with 72-23 victory • Posted 24 tackles, 4.0 TFLs and two sacks in 2013 • Played in eight games in 2012 and had one interception At Creekview: • Lettered at Creekview High School in Carrolton, Texas for coach Jay Cline • Made 30 tackles as a senior in 2011, including five sacks, five passes defended and six quarterback hurries • Also played wide receiver and had two catches, including a touchdown • Played basketball and averaged 6.9 points and 7.0 rebounds as a senior Personal: • Full name: Christopher Cordale Weatherd • Born on Aug. 1, 1994 • Son of Tina Washington 8:20 a.m.
Vic Wharton
WHARTON HIGHLIGHTS Freshman • Wide Receiver • 5-11 • 192 Spring Hill, Tenn./Independence Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 3-star (No. 46 athlete, No. 10 prospect in Tenn.) ESPN: 4-star (No. 41 athlete, No. 8 prospect in Tenn.) Rivals: 4-star (No. 50 wide receiver, No. 9 prospect in Tenn.) Scout: 3-star (No. 182 wide receiver) Coach
Zach Azzanni on Wharton: "Vic has a very extensive skill set, he can
play inside and outside and also return kicks. He understands what
Tennessee football is all about and we are very excited about his
future on Rocky Top."
At Independence: • Lettered at Independence High School in Spring Hill, Tenn. for head coach Scott Blade • Selected as one of Middle Tennessee's Dandy Dozen of 2013 top college football prospects • All-Southeast Honorable Mention for the All-Southeast HSGC Awards • 2013 First Team All-Midstate as kick returner • As a senior, selected to Class 6A All-State team as a defensive back •
As a senior, recorded 23 total TDs, nine rushing TDs, 58 carries, total
518 rushing yards, with average of 39.8 rushing yards per game •
Named All-American in Track and Field after finishing fourth nationally
in the 4x400 relay at the U.S. Track and Field Junior Olympics • High school teammate of fellow Vol commit Rashaan Gaulden Personal: • Full Name: Vic LaRoy Wharton III • Born: May 31, 1995 • Son of Robin and Vic Wharton • Nephew of Brandon Wharton, who played basketball at Tennessee in the late 1990s Owen Williams
WILLIAMS FEATURE R-Junior • Defensive Line • 6-2 • 285
Macon, Ga./Westside/Butler (Kansas) C.C. Prospect Rankings:
247 Sports: 3-star (No. 17 defensive tackle, No. 18 prospect in Kansas)
ESPN: 3-star (No. 40 overall prospect, No. 12 defensive tackle)
Rivals: 3-star
Scout: 2-star Coach
Steve Stripling on Williams: "Owen is very active and plays with a high
motor. He has outstanding strength and uses his hands very well. His
activity and playmaking abilities helped Butler CC to successful
season, and Owen had a great performance in their bowl game."
At Butler C.C.:
• Two-year starter at Butler Community College in El Dorado, Kansas for coach Troy Morrell
• Second Team NJCAA All-American in 2013
• Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference Defensive Player of the Year • 2013 KJCCC First Team All-Conference • Helped Grizzlies to 2013 Graphic Edge Bowl, making nine tackles in the game
• Led conference in sacks with 7.0 for 50 yards, as part of team-best 15.5 TFLs in 2013
• Piled up 48 tackles and forced a fumble in 2013
• Helped Grizzlies to 2012 KJCCC regular-season and playoff championships
• Racked up 49 tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks in 2012
• Also forced two fumbles and recovered one in 2012 At Westside: • Lettered at Westside High School in Macon Ga., for coach Sheddrick Risper
• All-State by the Georgia Sports Writers Associated in Class AAAA as a junior totaling 86 tackles and 15 sacks
• First Team All-Region 2-AAA, First Team All-Bibb County and Second Team All-Middle as a senior
• Georgia Macon Touchdown Club Lineman of the Week for Oct. 8, 2010 after posting 15 tackles and three sacks in a win
• Played in GACA North-South All-Star Football Classic
• Seminoles compiled a 31-6 record in his three varsity seasons
• Originally signed with Georgia Southern in 2011 Personal:
• Full Name: Owen Vidal Williams III
• Born: Sept. 29, 1991
• Son of Shawn and Owen Williams Jr. and Demetrice and Curtis Mathews Ethan Wolf
WOLF FEATURE Freshman • Tight End • 6-5 • 243 Minster, Ohio/Minster Prospect Rankings: 247 Sports: 3-star (No. 13 tight end, No. 16 prospect in Ohio) ESPN: 3-star (No. 15 tight end, No. 24 prospect in Ohio) Rivals: 3-star (No. 20 tight end, No. 25 prospect in Ohio) Scout: 4-star (No. 5 tight end) Coach
Mark Elder on Wolf: "Ethan is a complete tight end. He has good size,
physicality and athletic ability. He will be good both at blocking at
the point of attack and flexed out as a receiver. He will compete for
playing time right away."
At Minster: • Played at Minster High School in Ohio for coach Geron Stokes • Named Associated Press Second Team All-Ohio as a senior and junior • Earned First Team All-Midwest Athletic Conference honors in 2012 and 2013 • Named to the Division IV First Team All-District team in his junior and senior years • As a senior, hauled in 41 receptions for 475 yards with five receiving touchdowns Personal: • Full Name: Ethan James Wolf • Born: November 7, 1995 • Son of James and Shelly Wolf
|