Parks to visit UT this weekend

The highly touted defensive back from Creekside High School in Fairburn, Ga., said he's considering UT, Florida, Virginia Tech, Auburn and Clemson.

"Probably," the 6-foot-2, 200-pounder said with a pause, "it's dead even -- except for Florida and Tennessee. I've been talking to them a lot."

Parks has played quarterback, wide receiver, safety and cornerback in high school. He's projected to play defensive back in college.

The Vols have a strong ally on their side. Parks' former teammate, athlete Eric Berry, was UT's highest rated signee in the 2007 class.

"It plays a role with me going to Tennessee," Parks said. "That was my high school teammate. I'd like to play with him again. That plays a big role. We're real close. That's my boy."

Parks will visit UT's campus for the Orange and White game this Saturday.

Parks had to cancel a previously scheduled trip to Florida because it coincided with a Pro Day in Gainesville. The NCAA doesn't allow prospects to visit during NFL workouts. That trip will surely be rescheduled, as Florida's coaches have made quite an impression.

"They've been real with me," Parks said. "They're not playing games."

Parks said he's also been impressed with UT's recruiting efforts, led by head coach Phillip Fulmer and receivers' coach Trooper Taylor.

"They're real cool," Parks said.

Parks' brother played at Wake Forest but the Demon Deacons don't seem to be much of a factor. Parks said he likes the atmosphere at Auburn and Clemson. Virginia Tech also has a certain allure.

"Their DB's are real athletic and physical," he said. "I like the way that secondary plays."

Parks said he plans to announce a decision this summer because he's on course to graduate in December and enroll in college in January.

Parks had 43 tackles and four interceptions with one returned for a touchdown last season. He also had two touchdown receptions on offense.