KNOXVILLE—This is the first post in our “Countdown to Signing Day” series which will profile Tennessee’s commits and top remaining targets. First up is running back Darrel Williams. A former Arizona State commit, Williams decommitted from ASU shortly after a visit from Vol RB coach Robert Gillespie but committed to LSU the next day. Since then, the No. 1 RB in the nation, Leonard Fournette, pledged to play for the Tigers.

The Vols have stayed in contact with Williams and he will be visiting Rocky Top this weekend. He recently canceled a planned visit to Florida so he would presumably have more time to spend visiting Tennessee. The potential for early playing time has him seriously considering what the Vols have to offer and UT is certainly the biggest threat to LSU at this point.

Tennessee will have talent at running back next year, but most of it is unproven at the college level. The Vols could certainly use a third back in the 2014 class and Williams would be a big addition. You’ll find all you need to know about Williams below. What do you think? Does Tennessee have a chance to flip him? Leave us a comment below.

The Basics: Rated as a 4-star prospect by Rivals, 247Sports, and Scout, and a 3-star recruit by ESPN, Williams is a 6-1, 225 pound running back/athlete from Marrero, Louisiana (John Ehret HS). He rushed for 2,201 yards on 213 carries last season (10.33 ypc) with an astonishing 32 rushing TDs. He also recorded 365 yards and 3 TDs catching the football. Williams boasts offers from LSU, Tennessee, Arizona State, Florida, Georgia, Texas A&M, Missouri, and Nebraska, among others.

Scouting Report: A versatile back with excellent lateral quickness for his size, Williams has soft hands and is an adept receiver out of the backfield. Though not blazingly fast, he has above average speed (he reportedly runs a 4.5 40-yard dash) and an impressive 38-inch vertical leap. As a junior, he spent some time at quarterback

“Impressive size-to-speed combo. Thick, compact build with desired body composition for a college load carrier. Strong upper and lower body and a sturdy frame that can withstand punishment. Not a big threat in the second level but has deceptive outside speed. For teams looking for a downhill power-back with some shake, Williams may be the guy. He lacks game-breaker speed and elusiveness, but has workhorse type of attributes and the downhill strength and decisive running style that should translate well in the right downhill offense. Could get recruited to play linebacker with continued physical development.” -ESPN

Highlights: 

You can view more highlights here.