Rivals 100 OL visits Vols

Rivals 100 tackle Carl Johnson out of Durham (N.C.) Southern just visited Tennessee last weekend on an unofficial basis. What did the 6-foot-6, 325-pounder think of the Volunteers?

"It was a really good place, they have good academics. I asked them why their graduation rate was so low and they told me it was because most of their players don't stay all four years and instead they come back and graduate. Other than that, it was a really good visit," he said. "I have already been talking to the coaches, but it was good to meet them. I talked to coach Fulmer, Brooks and Atkins. They pretty much told me the same stuff, the normal routine.

"The scrimmage was really good, they've got a good team and they'll be making some noise in the SEC next year. It's going to be an interesting season for them. I think the offensive line is really good and they showed they play together as a team, so that's important."

Recently, Johnson took part in the All-American combine at Duke.

"I think I did pretty well for the most part. This was my first time back in a football atmosphere since I played in our last game last year. This was the first time I've been pass blocking or any blocking period since then," he said. "I think my shuttle, vertical and broad jump were good, but I've got to get my 40 down. My speed is there; my start is what is killing me. I've got to put on a show at the Nike Camp, I'm ready for it, and I've been stretching a lot and working on my explosiveness."

Johnson plans to attend the Nike Camp in Athens, Georgia on May 14th.

As for next year, the lineman has some big plans.

"Hopefully we can win the state championship and also get some other players into college," he said. "We had 10 players sign last year and I think we could get about eight or so this year. For me, it's just about being a leader and just to play as hard as I can and lead my team."

One thing that is always brought up with Johnson is if he's made a decision on graduating early.

"I think I am going to do it, I don't know for sure, but it's very likely that I'll graduate early."

Johnson currently holds offers from Clemson, Florida, Miami, Nebraska, North Carolina, North Carolina State, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia among others. While he names no favorites, these are the schools he mentions the most.

The lineman should easily qualify with a solid 2.75 GPA and 910 SAT.