KNOXVILLE—Former Clemson commit Ryan Jenkins switched his commitment to Tennessee today. Jenkins, a 4-star receiver from Georgia, became Butch Jones’ first 4-star commit. The 5-11, 180 lb. receiver’s father, Lee Jenkins, played defensive back for the Vols in the 80s. He becomes the third receiver in this class, joining Paul Harris and Josh Smith.

Jay Graham was Jenkins’ lead recruiter.
Photo by Reed Carringer

Jenkins was not recruited by Derek Dooley, but jumped at the offer to wear orange and white once Butch Jones and Jay Graham (Jenkins’ lead recruiter) came calling. While Jenkins doesn’t have blazing top-end speed (he reportedly runs a 4.48 40 yard dash), he is quick and elusive. He’s the type of player that, given the ball in space, will make a defender miss. Jenkins has good hands, a high football IQ, and is improving as a route-runner.

Tennessee’s newest commit also has ties with two highly rated Vol targets-Carl Lawson and Alvin Kamara. Lawson, a 5-star defensive end, is the No. 4 rated played in the nation and is good friends with Jenkins. Though Lawson is currently committed to Auburn, he is leaving his options open and will likely visit Tennessee before he makes a final decision. Kamara, a 4-star running back, is also friends with Jenkins. We’ll have to wait and see if those relationships have any impact moving forward, but they can’t hurt Tennessee’s chances of landing two of the nation’s top recruits.

Jenkins had offers from Clemson, Louisville, Mississippi State, Missouri, Oklahoma State, and Vanderbilt, among others.

Where He Fits: With the departure of Tennessee’s top four receivers, Jenkins has a chance to make an immediate impact. He’ll likely see extended playing time at the slot position this year.