Morristown's Garrettson picks UT

Blake Garrettson from Morristown East High School is UT's fifth commitment from Tennessee and the sixth pledge that lives within 400 miles of Knoxville. UT has traveled afar only twice -- to Florida and Louisiana -- to land two prospects this season.

UT's scholarship offer to Garrettson, a surprise pickup, seems to show a sincere intent by the Vols' coaches to give local athletes more opportunities. Recruiting coordinator Greg Adkins has long said he intended on focusing on area prospects.

Adkins cannot comment on prospective athletes, as per NCAA rules.

UT signed nine Tennessee prospects last season in what was widely considered one of the best high school classes in recent years. This year, the Vols have more than half that amount in what many thought was a down year for prospects in Tennessee.

National Signing Day is in February.

UT's coaches have long said Tennessee's state borders don't limit what they consider "local" athletes. Surrounding states within a reasonable distance also are targeted so UT can combat other schools with proximity.

Morristown East head coach Larry Smith has seen Garrettson grow from an unknown high school player to a college prospect during his high school career.

"He's one that's developed into a real fine player in the last three years," Smith said.

Smith said Garrettson played linebacker for most of the season because Morristown East needed him there. Garrettson also played offensive tackle. Smith said he expects Garrettson to be a defensive lineman at UT.

Garrettson's 6-foot-4, 275-pound frame makes one think of a budding offensive lineman. However, his speed could keep him on the defensive side of the ball.

"He's done a really good job in the weight room," Smith said. "He runs (the 40-yard dash) in the 4.7 range. That's real good speed for his size."