Tennnessee Football: What Each New Recruit Brings to the Vols

Apr 12, 2014; Knoxville, TN, USA; A general view of the Neyland Stadium before the Tennessee Volunteers orange and white spring game. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports

1. Todd Kelly Jr., Safety

A consensus 4-star recruit and the 3rd best player in the state of Tennessee, Todd Kelly Jr. is one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2014 class. Kelly, winner of the 2012 and 2013 Mr. Football Award in the state, displayed his athleticism his senior season on both sides of the ball, amassing 1014 yards rushing and 23 total touchdowns (20 rushing, 2 receiving, 1 punt return). He also recorded 59 tackles, 2 interceptions, and a sack.

While Kelly is undoubtedly an elite athlete (he was ranked the 61st overall player in the 247 composite), his intangibles are what may be the most appealing to the Vols.

Kelly displays natural leadership and is one of the most vocal players on Twitter. He was crucial in nabbing commitments from other top recruits in the state, and his ability to foster relationships with his peers and lead them will be pivotal on a young Tennessee defense this year and the years to come. He, like many other players in the 2014 class, is a legacy commitment for the Vols. Kelly’s father played defensive end for the Vols from 1989-92.

Todd Kelly Jr. figures to compete immediately for playing time this season, and even if he doesn’t crack the starting lineup as a freshman, he should provide some valuable depth or contribute on special teams. It’s hard not to imagine him eventually becoming a starter in the secondary and becoming a leader on the UT defense in the future.

Prediction: Backup, possible starter for 2nd half of season

Stats via Webb High School website