Tennessee lands one of 2011s best

Tennessee is working the road hard during the May Evaluation Period, as the Vols are trying to play catch up because of the coaching change. One area where they are on the same playing field as everyone else in the SEC is the class of 2011 and beyond. Today, they got a big boost from one of the top defensive linemen in that class. His name is Anthony Johnson and he is from New Orleans (La.) O. Perry Walker High School.

"I committed to the Volunteers," Johnson said. "I just feel really comfortable with the coaches. And they are just incredible. To play for a guy like coach O (Ed Orgeron) is awesome. He's a great guy and it's a great feeling that I will have a chance to play for him and at a school like Tennessee."

Johnson, 6-4 and 298 pounds, is strong player at defensive tackle, according to his coach.

"Man, he is really quick off the ball and has the power of a Warren Sapp when he comes off the ball," coach Powell said. "Of course he's still young and has things to work on like technique and using his hands. Anthony also needs to dominate on every down and not play down to the opponent. He just needs to play with more consistency. But he's still young and he has a bright future ahead."

Johnson will be one of the top prospects from the state of Louisiana for the '11 class. Was it hard to walk away from the home-state LSU Tigers?

"Yea, it was a hard decision. But I feel so good getting it done early. I just feel that connection with Tennessee."

LSU, Alabama, Georgia, UCLA and many others have come through O. Perry Walker and told Johnson that he has a scholarship waiting for him. He plans on visiting Knoxville for the first time this summer.