The University of Tennessee has its first football commitment for the class of 2007.

Austin-East High School wide receiver/defensive back Anthony Anderson told UT coach Phillip Fulmer and recruiting coordinator Dan Brooks on Wednesday that he intends to sign with the Vols next February.

"I always wanted to be a Tennessee Volunteer and play football for them," Anderson said. "When they offered me a full scholarship, I knew that’s where I wanted to go. Maybe another school might not offer me a full scholarship."

Anderson, a 6-foot-2, 175-pound junior, had seven interceptions last season and returned three for touchdowns. He also saw action at wide receiver and returned kicks, averaging better than 35 yards per punt return with two touchdowns.

Anderson received strong interest from Miami (Fla.) and Virginia Tech, but neither had offered scholarships.

Tennessee began contacting him following the Roadrunners’ game against Fulton on Aug. 26 before offering him a scholarship during its Junior Day on Jan. 28.

"He said, ‘If I commit, I don’t want to take any other visits,’ " Roadrunners coach Kwayu Graham said. "Anthony made the decision himself and that’s what he wanted to do."

Anderson said Tennessee is recruiting him primarily as a wide receiver but also will consider using him some at defensive back.

"I think they’re just interested in him as an athlete," Graham said. "He’s a special kid. He can fit a need at several different levels. He has good size, good speed and he’s a knowledgeable kid.

"He’s one of my favorite people. He’s special beyond sports and athletics. I’m glad he’s going to get the opportunity to play for one of the best college programs in the country."

Sam Anderson, Anthony’s father, was Austin-East’s football coach for seven seasons, winning Class AA state championships in 1983 and 1986 to go along with a pair of runner-up finishes in 1985 and 1987.

He resigned in 1987 to become the city’s director of parks and recreation and is a member of the Knox County School Board.

While Anthony Anderson is the Vols’ first commitment, he certainly won’t be the only one — and he may not even be the only Knoxville-area player to choose Tennessee.

The Vols already have offered scholarships to Maryville receiver and defensive back Tyler Maples, Catholic defensive back/receiver Harrison Smith and Alcoa defensive end Rae Sykes.

Now that his recruitment appears to be over, Anderson said he likely will become a recruiter himself.

"I’d love for any of them to play with me," he said. "We speak to each other, compliment each others’ talents. That’s the main goal: Get local athletes to join UT with me."

Drew Edwards covers high school sports. He may be reached at 865-342-6274.