The Next Chapter: Jaylen McCollough tells story behind UT commitment

Jaylen McCollough has announced that he is a Tennessee Volunteer. The Rivals250 safety committed to the Vols over Alabama, Auburn and South Carolina.

The four-star out of Powder Springs (Ga.) Hillgrove had great family support along the way and he fell in love with the game by watching his father at a young age.

McCollough tells his story behind his commitment.

"My journey into this sport started before I could even say the word football.

"I grew up watching my dad play at Jacksonville State University and ever since then, I knew that football would be something part of my life forever.

"I’ve always been athletic and gifted physically so it worked into my advantage. I started my career with a little organization known as the Smyrna Spartans until I was eight years old. Then I went and played park ball at McEachern until I was 11.

"I finished my park ball career at Welcome All Park in Fairburn, where Eric Berry grew up playing.

"I then transition into middle school ball where I really found out that I had a chance to be really good at football. Once I decided I was going to take football seriously I devoted my life to this game, but as we all know, it’s easy to get distracted.

"In order for me to keep my focus on the game I love, I dedicated to my family so they are a big reason I play this game. I then started my freshman year at Hillgrove High and exploded onto the recruiting scene.

"My first five offers were from SEC schools. The process has been an amazing one for my family and I. I’ve visited almost every school there is, but only one place felt like home.

"The University of Tennessee is a special place to be. Coach Jeremy Pruitt is one of the greatest defensive minds in the country and I am excited to play for him. I am excited to be a Vol.

"I can’t wait to get up to Knoxville and play in front of the best fans in college football. To everyone who has dreams of playing at the next level, continue to work hard and don’t let anything stop you from achieving your goals."