Kevin Cooper knows he’s a top priority for Tennessee.

"I believe they would like for me to commit early," the 6-foot-1, 240-pound running back from Baylor School in Chattanooga said. "I know that they want to get all their in-state recruits because they think their in-state recruits are most important."

UT will try to secure Cooper and other nearby football prospects first. Then, it’s off to lands beyond as UT’s coaches begin to recruit the rest of the country. UT’s spring evaluation period begins today.

Cooper isn’t ready to support the master plan just yet. He still isn’t even sure if he’ll make an early decision.

"I don’t think so," said Cooper, who has offers from UT, Alabama and North Carolina. "I might but I don’t see it."

Cooper said he plans to attend the Nike Camp in Athens, Ga., on Saturday. Cooper said he doesn’t plan on participating in the combine-style camp. He said he’ll be there for his close friend, Sidney Tarver, a 6-foot-3, 205-pound linebacker who also plays at Baylor.

Tarver has received attention from Georgia Tech, Middle Tennessee State and Army. The two have been friends since ninth-grade.

UT assistant Steve Caldwell is in charge of convincing Cooper that Knoxville should be his eventual destination. So far, Caldwell has made a good impression.

"I like him," Cooper said. "He’s a real nice guy. He’s cool and down to earth."

Cooper said he posted a 4.7-second time in the 40-yard dash last summer. Cooper said he bench presses 305 pounds and squats 405.