TENNESSEE VOLUNTEERS ARE EXCITED FOR A STAR PLAYER TO.

Tennessee Is Excited for Mike Matthews to Arrive

The Vols have completed the majority of the work in their 2024 signing class a few weeks before early national signing day. The coaching staff believes that they have added a number of elite players who will have an immediate impact on this roster. Mike Matthews, a five-star wide receiver, is one of those players. Matthews plays prep football for Parkview High School in Lilburn, Georgia. He is about 6-2 and 180 pounds. Matthews, who was just named the Region 4-7A Offensive Player of the Year, has committed to play in the Under Armour All-American Bowl.

After weighing his options, which included Tennessee, Clemson, Georgia, and USC, Matthews made his decision on July 19. He never showed any signs of changing his mind or withdrawing from the Vols. With so many unknowns surrounding him, Matthews enters a situation that is full of uncertainty. Tennessee is still awaiting the decisions of a number of players, including Dont’e Thornton and Bru McCoy. The Vols have also seen some struggles from wide-outs during the season. The state’s prospective wide receiver class is full of talented players.

With or without injuries, the five-star player might see significant playing time. What is his initial base value to this staff, I wonder? If it’s really high, there’s a good chance you’ll see him in a spot between four and six before the season even starts, which would mean he would be the starting team’s backup during his rookie season.

Since Matthews is very physical and can play outside or in the slot when lined up at wide receiver, some may start clamoring for the true freshman to get more snaps and possibly even starting time if he dominates during camp. Whatever route the Vols decide to take with this particular prospect, it is imperative that they allow Matthews to see at least some playing time in the first season. Many believe Matthews will eventually be quarterback Nico Iamaleava’s top option, and the more time he gets, the faster he develops.