CJ Craig-James left Tennessee with a strong impression after taking in the Volunteers’ matchup with Texas, and the highly regarded safety prospect made it clear the visit mattered.
Craig-James, a class of 2028 talent and the No. 74 prospect in the state according to 247Sports Composite, was in Knoxville for the Tennessee-Texas game. Afterward, he spoke with Vols On SI and said the atmosphere stood out immediately.
"It was great! I’ve never been at a game day atmosphere like that in my life," Craig-James said when speaking to Vols On SI.
The Alabama prospect also got time with several members of Tennessee’s staff during the visit, including Derek Jones, who is known as Coach Cheetah, along with Jim Knowles and Coach H.
"On my visit I spoke Coach Cheetah, Jim Knowles, and Coach H," Craig-James said.
What he saw on the field clearly resonated too. After watching the game, Craig-James pointed to Tennessee’s defense as the biggest takeaway from the trip.
"I love the way Tennessee defense played," Craig-James said.
The visit appears to have helped the Vols in a meaningful way. Craig-James said Tennessee is firmly in the mix for him, placing the program among his top choices.
"Tennessee is top 3 in my recruitment," Craig-James said.
And Tennessee won’t have to wait long for another chance to make an impression. Craig-James confirmed he plans to return later this month when the Vols face one of their biggest rivals.
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Dalton Knechts Lakers Future Suddenly Feels Far Less Secure
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NBA insider Brett Siegel even mentioned Knecht as a possible roster cut during training camp, though the Lakers have not issued any official indication that they plan to move on. JJ Redick has praised Knechts work ethic and his push to earn a rotation spot, but for now the bigger question is whether that effort will be enough to steady a future that suddenly looks far less secure. [Read more 🡒]