Part II: Grading UT's signing class

Sure, it's exemplary. But there are always deficiencies in any class.

Here are the grades:

Quarterback

With four quarterbacks on the roster (three of which were higher ranked as a prospect than B.J. Coleman), UT's coaches did exactly what they had to do to sign a signal caller in 2007. They dug deep and found what they hope is a diamond in the rough.

Still, I can't help but wonder what may have been if UT had pursued a mobile signal caller. Such an athlete could be a contributor much sooner if he proved to be a change up under center.

Coleman's stock continued to rise after his commitment, but it would be surprising if he saw the field any earlier than 2009. Nevertheless, I like UT's philosophy of signing a quarterback every year. The Vols should never be caught without a quarterback.

Grade: B-

Running Backs

One would have thought it impossible to land a good crop of running backs considering UT has three young, proven runners on its roster. Despite the challenge, consider the mission accomplished.

UT absconded with the top tailback from Texas (Lennon Creer) and a local speedster who has been compared to former Vol Charlie Garner (Dennis Rogan). The Vols also landed three more tailbacks that could provide depth or project to play elsewhere.

UT also addressed a need with Kevin Cooper. Can he be UT's next great fullback after the past two, Cory Anderson and David Holbert, haven't lived up to expectations?

Daryl Vereen could be the surprise in this group if he lives up to his summer camp performances. Josh Hawkins will likely move to linebacker.

Grade: A

Wide Receivers

This was the second most important position for the Vols to fill -- and they did so. UT landed two U.S. Army All-Americans: Ahmad Paige and Gerald Jones. They also landed a smooth route runner, Todd Campbell, early before other schools could get a foothold.

The Vols also hope to get immediate help from junior college transfer Kenny O'Neal.

It was obvious from UT's pursuit of Dwight Jones and Marquise Maze that the Vols wanted one more receiver, especially after UT lost its top three from 2006. Missing out on the two, in particular Jones because of the enormous time spent recruiting him, was a blow.

Also, don't forget about Brent Vinson, who was sidelined because of academic shortcomings last fall. He may have as much ability as any the Vols have signed.

Grade: A

Offensive Line

The obvious weak link in the class but Phillip Fulmer said that was by design. UT's head coach said the Vols had no more room in the recruiting "budget" for offensive linemen.

UT only signed two offensive linemen in the 2007 class, one of which, Cody Pope, signed in 2006 before academics delayed his enrollment.

The Vols definitely landed a great prospect in Darris Sawtelle. His commitment also provided a substantial, early foundation for the Vols to build upon.

I know UT has plenty of young offensive linemen already on the roster. But I can't help but think that the Vols would have benefited more from another lineman as opposed to one of many skill position-type players they signed.

Fulmer also hinted that some of UT's defensive linemen could end up on offense, as they often do.

Grade: C-

Defensive backs

Again, the Vols hit a home run where they needed it. UT signed two experienced high school defensive backs, Dashaun Barnes and C.J. Fleming, and several other athletes that will eventually end up in the secondary.

Most importantly, UT signed two junior college defensive backs that will be expected to contribute immediately. The Vols lost three of four starters from last year's secondary so jucos Nevin McKenzie and DeAngelo Willingham are key.

Art Evans will benefit from spring practice after enrolling at UT in January.

Then, there's Eric Berry. If there's any one high school prospect that's likely to contribute as a freshman, it's Berry.

Grade: A+

Linebackers

This is a nearly impossible position to grade because some of the athletes currently slated to play elsewhere will end up at linebacker. That being said, it looks like UT did a good job.

UT had to land the Chris's, Donald and Walker, and did so. That could be a formidable duo for the foreseeable future. Donald got most of the pub during the recruiting season but Walker has exceptional ability. Donald will have to watch his weight or the 6-foot-3, 225-pounder could end up at defensive end.

Savion Frazier is one of the classic safety-turned-linebacker prospects that UT has lived on for years.

Don't forget, UT has plenty of young, talented linebackers on the roster so the position was hardly a major concern for 2007.

Grade: B

Defensive line

The Vols were failing woefully in this department in October. Then, UT reeled off six defensive linemen in three months. Not bad.

Historically, UT has been at championship form when it had a great defensive tackle (or two). The Vols signed four this year, although Cory Hall is a bit light and needs academic work.

If UT can get one great player among William Brimfield, Donald Langley or Rolando Melancon, then its mission accomplished.

UT's pass rushing from its defensive ends was woefully inadequate in 2006. When will a great pass rushing defensive end emerge? It could be soon if Ben Martin and Rae Sykes live up to their billing.

Keeping Sykes in state was key. The Vols have lost enough of their homegrown talent.

Rufus Williams is listed as a linebacker but don't be surprised if he ends up as a speed rushing end.

Grade: B+

Athletes

There are several prospects listed as athletes by UT, meaning they could play a number of positions. Here are my thoughts on a few:

Anthony Anderson could be special in the open field. Likely will play safety.

• Tyler Maples is an exceptional athlete that also happens to be a "gamer". Could excel at receiver of defensive back.

• Darnius Moore has been overlooked because he is teammates with Creer, but Moore has great speed and quickness. He is not just part of a package deal.

Grade: A

Next: Where does UT's 2007 class rank among Phillip Fulmer's best?