Four-Star LB Edwin Spillman In Limelight After Sammy Brown's Decision

2024 four-star inside linebacker Edwin Spillman becomes that much more important to the Tennessee Volunteers now that Sammy Brown has committed to Clemson.

Five-star linebacker Sammy Brown shook up the recruiting world this week by committing to the Clemson Tigers. Brown initially intended to commit during the first week of July but was blown away by Clemson and their family environment during his most recent visit. Tennessee was in good standing with Brown after their official visit at the end of May but were still in the backseat to Clemson and Georgia. Missing out on Brown isn't a complete surprise, but it is earlier than the coaching staff anticipated.

It underscores the need for the Vols to land in-state linebacker Edwin Spillman this recruiting cycle. They landed his older brother, wide receiver Nate Spillman, in the 2023 class and have been thought to be the No. 1 suitor for the younger Spillman. Florida State and Ohio State are real contenders, but Spillman has been in love with the Knoxville atmosphere since before his brother announced his decision. Tennessee has been thorough in Edwin's process, constantly communicating and trying to get him on campus.

Edwin is one of the best movers in the class. He stands 6-1 and 220 pounds with ample lateral agility and sound tackling technique. I evaluated him January and am convinced he's the natural No. 1 target now that Brown is off the board.

"Spillman logged 101 tackles, 14.5 TFLs, and six pass deflections in his junior season for Lipscomb Academy. His game goes far beyond his years, and Spillman should be one of the staff's top priorities. Spillman's aggressive nature is the No. 1 thing that jumps off the tape. He lays the lumber every time he meets the ball carrier, often entering jarring collisions that are technically sound from a tackling standpoint. However, his violence transcends big hits. Spillman is a step ahead of everyone, ready to make a play and make his presence known. He routinely covers ground quicker than anyone because of his willingness to attack. Opposing blockers would shrink their leverage over games after a few encounters with Spillman. He knows how to correctly combine physicality with technique, which can be overwhelming in the open field."

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