Sawtelle Follows his Heart to Tennessee

Realizing a childhood dream, five-star lineman Darris Sawtelle of Brother Rice High School in Bloomfield Hills, Mich., committed to attend and play football at the University of Tennessee.

There really was never any doubt that offensive lineman Darris Sawtelle would follow in his All-American grandfather's, and namesake's, cleats and play football for the University of Tennessee. However, times have changed since Darris McCord was a high school recruit, and Sawtelle needed to take a peek at other schools before making his pledge. On Saturday, he knew it was time. "I did commit to Tennessee after the spring game on Saturday," Sawtelle told GoBlueWolverine.com. It's something I knew in my heart was going to happen, I just needed to take a look at some other places to make sure, but this is where I want to be."

McCord played for the Vols in the 50s before going on to a stellar career with the Detroit Lions. The proud grandfather was along during the trip, and said he couldn't be happier. "Things have sure changed since I was (at UT), he said. "There are a lot of exciting things going on, and they got one heck of a football player."

The 6-foot-5, 285-pound Sawtelle said he would return home on Monday and contact the coaches from the other schools at that time.