Tennessee Football Recruiting: 5 Remaining 2017 Prospects to Watch for Vols

Javonta Payton is a three-star athlete on Rivals who has the Vols in contention with numerous other schools. However, as a prospect from Tennessee, he belongs on this list.

And as one of the few skill players left that Tennessee football really has a chance to get, he is definitely a guy to watch out for.

With schools like Purdue and Ole Miss in the running, Payton appears to have the Vols and Middle Tennessee as his top two choices. That indicates that he really wants to stay close to home, but it also indicates early playing time is a factor.

And that second factor could hurt the Vols.

However, Payton’s versatility is amazing, and he has unique abilities at wide receiver.

His 6’2″ frame is impressive enough, but he is a great route-runner and can jump over defenders to make catches.

His breakaway speed may be a bit of a concern, but he has all the necessary fundamental tools to be a solid receiver. His tape suggests he is extremely underrated as a three-star.

Tennessee football’s depth at receiver may be a deterrent for him, but after losing Josh Malone and Preston Williams prematurely, the roster is more open this year than we initially thought it would be.

So that gives the Vols a strong chance at this guy.