We got a new 2023 commit today…

[Black Diamond Vol]

Former 2024 athlete Emmanuel Okoye has committed and will reclassify to the 2023 class. From Nigeria via London.  He’s only been playing fb since last fall, so he’s pretty raw. Freakish athleticism, though. Played DE last year, but might move to TE at UT.

https://www.rockytopinsider.com/2023/05/17/tennessee-football-lands-four-star-edge-rusher-emmanuel-okoye/

[BanditVol]

There are physical skills to DE for sure, like how to break a block or brush by a blocker, how to tackle in space, etc, but its not a hard position to learn (IMO) and freakish athletic skills are generally rewarded there.  He might be a pleasant surprise if he stays there. 

[Black Diamond Vol]

There are physical skills to DE for sure, like how to break a block or brush by a blocker, how to tackle in space, etc, but its not a hard position to learn (IMO) and freakish athletic skills are generally rewarded there.  He might be a pleasant surprise if he stays there. 

We went heavy at DE in this year’s class, and it appears we’re poised to do the same in 2024. We might have a greater need at TE. His skills would translate pretty well on offense, too. A 45” vertical and 7’2” wingspan would be pretty effective on jump balls.

[BanditVol]

We went heavy at DE in this year’s class, and it appears we’re poised to do the same in 2024. We might have a greater need at TE. His skills would translate pretty well on offense, too. A 45” vertical and 7’2” wingspan would be pretty effective on jump balls.

Agree, but its harder to train someone to catch than it is to tackle, IMO

Regardless, hope he can contribute

[Black Diamond Vol]

Other than QB, TE might be the toughest position for a newbie to master. Not only do you have to learn pass routes, but blocking schemes too. And in CJH’s offense, you might even line up at RB. But it sounds like Okoye is a very bright dude, so hopefully it won’t be too much for him. I suppose we’ll have to get him on campus before we really know what we’ve got. Regardless, to go from never having played the game to being a 4* recruit and getting offers from UT, USC, and UGA after one year is impressive. If he had remained in the ‘24 class, I suspect we would have even more competition for him this fall.