Redd sets some visits

The state of Tennessee may not put out as many elite athletes as some other states, but players like defensive end Vince Redd are improving its reputation for talent.

As one of the top defensive line prospects in the nation, Redd has garnered attention and offers from almost every major program in the nation. Does he have any favorites?

"Well," he hesistated, "I'm taking four visits and I like two other schools, so I guess I have a top six. I'm going to Virginia this weekend, Virginia Tech on Nov. 29 and I'll visit Tennessee, and South Carolina for sure. I'm not exactly sure when the dates for the Tennessee and South Carolina trips are. I also like Arkansas and Ole Miss."

Redd has ideal size for a college defensive end but rather than line up at the position where he has the most potential, Redd saw action elsewhere.

"I played mostly tight end and linebacker this year. I feel like I did a really good job at both positions. I'm not sure of my stats."

So what did teams who played against his Elizabethton, Tenn. team think of a 6-foot-7, 240-pound linebacker?

"I think some running backs were a little timid," Redd laughed. "I knock some balls down and can stick an arm out an wrap someone up that a guy smaller than me might couldn't. But other than that it's not as big a factor as people might think.

"Virginia is recruiting me as a linebacker and has told me I'd be playing with some talented young guys. All the other schools want me as either a defensive end or a tight end. I'm not sure which position I'll wind up at, but a lot of people tell me I should eventually be a defensive end."

So what does Redd like about each of the schools that he mentioned?

"I've talked to the coaches at all the schools I like. I haven't been to South Carolina yet but I know that it will be nice. All the other places have nice campuses and good college atmospheres which would make for a good experience. I also like that the schools I've mentioned provide tutors for the football players to help you improve in the classroom."