Just as many bemoan Tennessee’s 2006 football signing class, be thankful. It likely would have been much worse if not for defensive ends coach Steve Caldwell.

Caldwell was the primary recruiter for five of UT’s signees including the highest rated prospect, Chattanooga Baylor offensive lineman Jacques McClendon, and the most likely candidate to have an immediate impact, Coffeyville (Kan.) Community College defensive end Walter Fisher.

Caldwell also helped sign ldefensive end Chase Nelson from Union High School in Tulsa, Okla., wider receiver/cornerback Stephaun Raines from Dalton (Ga.) High and defensive end Victor Thomas from Olive Branch (Miss.) High.

The always humble Caldwell is quick to point out that recruiting is a team affair. He cites his fellow coaches and support staff as vital to his success.

"It is a team effort," Caldwell said, "It’s not just Steve Caldwell."

That being said, Caldwell deserves much of the credit for salvaging a respectable class.

UT’s disappointing 2005 season had a strong affect on Caldwell’s recruiting efforts. Caldwell, so disgusted by how the season unfolded at 5-6, refused to watch any bowl games and immersed himself in recruiting to wash away the heartache.

"You want to put this thing behind you," Caldwell said. "Hopefully, you learn from it. Once signing day was over, it’s behind us. The season was officially over then."

The season forced Caldwell and UT’s other coaches to face questions about the stability of the program. Opposing schools were quick to point out that the Vols had to replace three assistants.

"That was things that were brought up against us on the recruiting trail," Caldwell said. "Where was the program going to go?"

Caldwell said David Cutcliffe’s hiring as offensive coordinator was a natural counter to the many questions that UT faced. Caldwell said UT athletic director Mike Hamilton also helped show prospects that UT football was, indeed, on stable ground by backing head coach Phillip Fulmer during official visit weekends.

Still, it was a trying season as the Vols continually fielded questions about the recent past and newly directed future.

UT’s 2006 class ranked anywhere from 15th to 24th in the nation according to various recruiting services. Caldwell sees more bright spots than blemishes.

"The ratings come from a lot of those that follow the quarterbacks, running backs and specialty type people," Caldwell said. "We signed five defensive linemen. Those guys don’t get as much publicity but you’re going to win and lose with what you’ve got up front."

Caldwell recruited three of those defensive line prospects and he’s pleased with the group.

"I think we did a good job," said Caldwell. "Once those guys get in here, we’ll have more depth than we’ve ever had."

Caldwell’s three defensive line prospects are all projected to play defensive end at UT, the position he coaches.

"When you are the recruiting coach and the position coach, it makes a difference," Caldwell said. "I think there’s a special bond there."

Fisher is one of those players. He has already caught Caldwell’s eye with his off-season work habits.

"I really have been impressed with him," Caldwell said. "He moves very well. I’m looking forward to getting him on the field. I love his motor. I love the way he plays.

"I think we can get him ready to play next fall."

Caldwell doesn’t have to think hard when asked what makes him a great recruiter. It comes down to people skills and trust.

"If you can get along with people," he said, "that’s where it all starts. If they feel like you can be trusted, they’ll listen to you more."

Fortunately for the Vols, they listened to Caldwell plenty.

Dave Hooker covers recruiting. He may be reached at hookerd@knews.com.