Inside linebacker Gavin Bryant committed to Tennessee on June 17th just three days after taking an unofficial visit to Knoxville. He took his official visit on January 17th and hasn’t traveled to any other schools since. Vol linebackers coach Tommy Thingpen has been his primary recruiter.

His high school coach Danny Powell told al.com, “There are two things he can really do well, which is run and hit. What everybody likes about him is he’s a big hitter. He doesn’t just like to tackle, he likes to hammer people pretty good.”

Bryant is a dynamic and explosive athlete with the ability to contribute early if needed. However, A.J. Johnson’s return means there isn’t an opening at middle linebacker this season, so Bryant could be a candidate to redshirt as he preps to compete for the vacant middle linebacker spot next season. If needed, he has the ability to provide immediate help on special teams and as a reserve linebacker.

The Basics: Rated as a 4-star prospect by ESPN, Scout, and 247Sports, and a 3-star recruit by Rivals, Gavin Bryant is a 6-2, 230 pound inside linebacker from Jackson, Alabama (Jackson HS). He is rated as the No. 10 inside linebacker and No. 242 overall prospect by 247Sports. As a junior, he amassed 110 tackles and 8 sacks. Bryant chose the Vols over Auburn, Florida, Kentucky, Miami, South Carolina, Alabama, and others.

Scouting Reports: Bryant has the size and versatility to see the field early if needed and gives the Vols yet another player they can plug into a defense which will be starved for depth in 2014 and, to a lesser extent, 2015. Though he clearly projects at linebacker, he could possibly grow into a defensive end. Bryant is a physical athlete who explodes toward opponents before using his impressive frame to violently separate their feet from the turf. In addition to his outstanding physicality, he has plus speed and reportedly runs a 4.6 40-yard dash. 

“Bryant is a dominant run stopper with the size, strength, range and playing speed for the inside linebacker position at the BCS level of play. He will most likely be able to support additional bulk over time. A physically strong player who plays big at the point of attack while demonstrating strong tackling skills. Displays excellent range with the ability to change direction, turn and run to the sideline….Does a good job covering kickoffs and should be able to do a variety of jobs on special teams effectively. Bryant’s motor along with his outstanding athleticism and toughness could earn him early playing time at the BCS level of competition.” – ESPN.com

Highlights: