DB Jackson to decide Thursday, still in play for Vols

As is becoming more customary, a handful of prospects will sign their letter of intent after National Singing Day. At least two are considering Tennessee.

Defensive back Janzen Jackson from Barbe High School in Lake Charles, La., will announce his decision Thursday morning. Travel problems kept his mother from making it to his press conference.

UT is thought to be well within the mix for Jackson, who is one of the best cornerback prospects in the nation.

Former UT commitment David Oku from Carl Albert High in Midwest City, Okla., also did not sign on Wednesday. He told Rivals.com he was no longer committed anywhere.

"I don't know when a decision will be made," the 5-foot-10, 185-pound Oku said. "I just need some space and some time to think and sort things out. Hopefully the coaches will respect that and understand how difficult this has become for me."

Oku had been committed to UT since September. It is unclear when Oku will make his announcement. He is considering UT, Auburn and Syracuse.

"It is what it is," UT recruiting coordinator Ed Orgeron said of the new trend. "The recruiting day has accelerated. You have to keep up with the times. You have to keep up with the information.

"I'm not going to stop it. You have to be able to adjust so we're going to have to continue to recruit. If guys want to come on official visits and sign (after signing day) and they're good players, we have to do it."

Tight end Orson Charles from Plant High in Tampa, Fla., won't likely make his decision until next week at the earliest considering he has an official visit to Southern California planned for later this week.

Remember Me?: The three formerly committed prospects that were told they wouldn't likely fit in at UT by Lane Kiffin found homes Wednesday.

Athlete Damien Thigpen signed with UCLA. Quarterbacks Bryce Petty and Tajh Boyd signed with Baylor and Clemson, respectively.

Notre Dame also made a strong push for Thigpen.

Intersetingly enough, UCLA plays at Tennessee in September.

© 2009, Knoxville News Sentinel Co.
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