Florida TE Chatterton commits

Tampa (Florida) tight end Chris Chatterton committed to Pennsylvania Wednesday night.

"When I went for my official visit it felt right," he said. "I’m big on academics, and the coaches told me I could get into the Wharton School [of business] there, so it’s a good fit for my interests. I also think I fit into their offensive scheme well. Some of the bigger schools said they thought I wasn’t big enough to play tight end, and I don’t think that’s fair. I think whether or not you can play should be based on performance."

The 6-foot-3 Chatterton said that regardless of his snub by some of the country’s major programs, he’s confident that he made the right choice by pledging to Penn. He claims that one of the major reasons he was willing to make his decision now was his level of comfort with the coaching staff.

"Coach [Head Coach Al] Bagnoli is a great guy, and I talked to a lot of players who said you can talk to him about anything, any time," Chatterton said. "They also said that he just manages his assistants, which is a style I like a lot. He has confidence in them and their game plan, and he just oversees everything. The tradition there is so unbelievable, and they’re so successful in the Ivy League every year, and he’s a big part of the reason why."

A big fan of Jeremy Shockey, Chatterton describes himself as a powerful receiving tight end who surprises opponents with his versatility.

"I really like Shockey, but his attitude is something that my coach wouldn’t want me to follow," Chatterton joked. "I’m a big target, though, and I can find the hole with deceptive speed. I also love blocking and putting someone on their back."

All of his talents are skills he will be able to put to work next year in Philadelphia, now that the relieved senior has alleviated the stress of the recruiting process.

"The whole recruiting process is a struggle and a lot of work," Chatterton said. "So it’s a relief that I’m through with it. I’m glad it’s over and I can concentrate on high school and football and the upcoming playoffs. The first couple of phone calls were really fun and exciting, but after a couple months it can get old."