Memphis nabs second 2009 JUCO commit

The University of Memphis is off to a quick start to its 2009 recruiting class. The Tigers have also made it a clear priority to grab some players from the junior college ranks, particularly in California. Not long after picking up their first commit for 2009 in Chaz Russell, the Tigers have gone into California once again for commitment number two.

Kevin Williams out of Pittsburgh (Calif.) Los Medanos C.C. recently decided to end his recruitment early and committed to Memphis on Monday.

"I committed yesterday," Williams said. "They've been recruiting me since last year, my freshman year. I said 'I like the way you guys talk to me and I really would like to go to your school.' The head coach and the defensive coordinator came out to see me and I really liked them."

The Florida native has never been on the Memphis campus but the relationship that he has built with the coaching staff was enough to sway him into an early commitment.

"The relationship with the coaches is the main reason," he said. "I've been following them and whatever. They've been doing ok but I feel like I can come there and help them out a lot."

Williams can also help in a lot of different ways. He is a true athlete who can excel all over the field and the Memphis staff has recognized that.

"That's what the coaches were saying to me that they want me to play more than one position," he said. "I can play defensive back, wide receiver, kick returner, punt returner. My primary position is a DB but they put me in at wide receiver."

Aside from Williams' versatility one of his strengths is his athleticism and evidently his confidence as well.

"I'm a speed guy," he explained. "I've got awareness for the ball. I'll come up to hit too but I'm mainly a speed guy. I can be a shut down corner. You can put me on an island."

Originally committed to USF out of high school at St. Petersburg (Fla.) Gibbs, Memphis secured Williams commitment over offers from USF, Oregon State, Utah State and West Virginia.

He plans to visit Memphis for the first time on an official visit in the fall.