Johnson’s ties leads him to commit to UT

Austin Johnson

Signing Day 2008 is almost 17 months away, but that’s not stopping Tennessee from getting a head start.

UT picked up its third commitment of the 2008 class when Austin Johnson of Hickory (N.C.) High School committed to the Vols just before the Marshall game Saturday.

Johnson joins tight end Aaron Douglas of Maryville High School and defensive back J.T. Floyd of J.L. Mann High School in Greeneville, S.C., as high school juniors who have announced they will attend UT.

UT’s three commitments from high school juniors lead the SEC. Only three other schools in the conference have a pledge for 2008. Arkansas, Georgia and Ole Miss have one.

Johnson’s commitment shouldn’t be considered much of a surprise, considering the many legacies he has to UT. Several of Johnson’s family, including both parents, attended UT or one of its satellite locations.

"That was probably put in his head when he was in diapers," Hickory head coach John Worley said of the Tennessee influence.

The 6-foot-2, 235-pounder admitted he planned on committing even before he took an unofficial visit to Knoxville last weekend. He received his official offer from UT two days after attending UT’s season-opening game against California.

"I’ve always been a Tennessee fan my whole life," said Johnson, whose nickname is "Bruiser." "When I was a freshman, I told my dad that whoever came at me strongest was where I’d go.

"When I first got the letter, it was shocking and it put a lot on my mind. Committing early is going to help me clear my mind."

With the commitment made, the Johnson clan can focus on what they are so passionate about.

"He comes from a family that really emphasizes sports," Worley said of Johnson, who is an All-Conference pitcher for Hickory’s baseball team. "He’s athletic and he loves the game of football."

Worley said he expects Johnson to play defense in college. Linebacker looks like the likely destination. The star junior is averaging nearly 20 tackles per game, has more than 10 sacks and two interceptions.

But Johnson’s college position depends on how much he continues to grow. Defensive end could be a possibility.

While Johnson’s collegiate path is laid out, Worley is happy that it’s not too immediate.

"I’m glad he’s just a junior," Worley said with a chuckle, "and we’ll have him next year."

During that time, Johnson still will have to fend off other recruiters determined to test his conviction.

Georgia already has told the Johnsons that the Bulldogs will keep calling. They have a family tie of their own. Two of Johnson’s grandparents attended Georgia.

"When I went down to commit to coach (Phillip) Fulmer, I made a commitment," Johnson said. "I don’t think I’m going to visit any schools unless something terrible happens. If people start talking to me then I’m going to tell them where I want to go.

"I’m going to honor my word."

Official Visitor: The Vols ended up hosting one official visitor this weekend. Running back Lennon Creer from Tatum (Texas) High School made the trip. The 6-1, 200-pounder also is considering Oklahoma State, Oklahoma, Miami and Florida.

© 2006, Knoxville News Sentinel Co.
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