Notes, Buzz Around Vols Prospect from Atlanta Under Armour Camp

Alpharetta, Ga.-- Tennessee has emphasized its in-state recruiting borders under Josh Heupel, but the Vols are continuing to recruit talent from surrounding states. Today, at the Atlanta Under Armour Camp, several Vols targets were in attendance, and the VR2 on SI staff has a collection of notes on hand.

Elite DT Walter Nolen

This is a heavyweight battle with several schools being involved. Tennessee would likely be out of this race if Rodney Garner wasn't involved. There is a big appeal there, and Garner has pulled off bigger upsets in the past. LSU, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Ohio State remain heavily involved. Georgia has surged into the picture and will almost certainly make the list. Ed Orgeron and Nick Saban are leading the charge at the SEC west schools. Nolen will release a modified list of top schools in the coming weeks, so keep an eye on that one. Nolen left no doubt about why he is so highly coveted after his dominant performance today.

Duo of Milton Prospects

Milton High School (Ga.) is home to several nationally recruited prospects, and Tennessee is firmly in the picture for Mo Clipper Jr. and Jordan McDonald. Clipper is an athletic offensive tackle, and he is hearing from the Vols staff on a consistent basis. He will likely visit once the NCAA dead period is lifted. Same with McDonald. Jerry Mack and Matt Merritt both lead the charge for the talented RB. Both prospects say Tennessee is close to the top of their list at this time. Full updates to come.

Coveted RB Damari Alston

Alston was impressive on the hoof. Coming into the day, I was not sure where he stood with Tennessee, as the Vols appeared to be lagging behind. However, Alston appears to enjoy what he hears from Josh Heupel and the Tennessee staff. He likes the offense they run and how it lines up with his high school system. He will visit once things open up. More to come on him.

LB Joshua Josephs

After Tennessee offered, sources indicated to VR2 on SI the Vols were higher on Josephs than many believed. It was easy to see why. He made the Sports Illustrated All-American All-22 team today, and he was an impressive player to watch. He displayed phenomenal length, but he is more than just a pass rusher. He is fluid in coverage and naturally runs with receivers, tight ends and running backs. He will take an official visit to Tennessee once things open up. Kentucky is also likely to get one.

OT Addison Nichols

The elite offensive tackle sang high praises for the Tennessee staff. He continues to hear from coach Glen Elarbee and likes the bond he is building. If the recruiting quiet period makes it to July, Nichols will take an official visit to Knoxville. He is comfortable with what the city offers and has seen it more than any other campus. He just wants to take full advantage of the process to make sure he sees all of his contenders.

DB Kody Jones

Tennessee continues to work the recent Michigan commitment. The Vols are recruiting him as more of an athlete, which appeals to him. He played DB today, but he is a natural athlete with nice ball skills. He has a high ceiling as he continues to develop. He remains locked in with Michigan, but he is continuing to listen to Tennessee and a few others. The Vols are recruiting him by committee, and he will continue to weigh out his option. He could be a tough pull, but he is one the Vols want to keep in-state badly.