Jalyn Crawford Becoming Priority Corner

The Tennessee Volunteers recently picked up a commitment from defensive back Marcus Goree, meaning corner Jalyn Crawford becomes even more of a priority.

Defensive back was a sore spot for Tennessee fans last season. When SEC play began, teams exploited them in the backend and generated explosive plays through the passing game.

The coaching staff went after some highly-coveted defensive backs on the recruiting trail. Defensive back Marcus Goree chose the Volunteers on Saturday evening, adding to a secondary class that already included corner Kaleb Beasley.

Corner Jalyn Crawford could be their next target in the backend. The Georgia native has added twelve offers since his junior season ended and is one of the fastest risers on the recruiting trail. He was in Knoxville for Junior Day in January, and Tennessee shares mutual interest.

Long Arms

Crawford measures 6-0 and 170 pounds, which may be under Tennessee's size prerequisites. However, he has long arms that allow him to get back into the play when he gets beat.

His wingspan allows him to play press-man coverage well, a benefit for any college program that lands him. Receivers are going to win when corners have no safety help, but length allows corners to lose a rep yet when the battle.

Length can also be an asset in the run game. Crawford has caused several fumbles throughout his high school career by wrapping up and quickly getting his arms between the ball carrier and the ball, lodging it out.

Physical Player

The SEC is the most physical league in college football. Others don't require corners to play run support, but SEC offenses still maintain a balance between the run and pass, meaning defensive backs must be physical.

Crawford is not only comfortable with contact, but he embraces it. He has a strong stance when approaching the ball carrier, enough so that Parkview High School occasionally plays him in the slot.

His physicality goes beyond run support. Crawford routinely engages with receivers during their routes, getting a solid punch at the line of scrimmage while continuing to battle as the route develops.

High School Pedigree

Tennessee places a premium on pedigree and history. Some top programs only evaluate talent, while others undergo a more extensive evaluation process. You must have scheme versatility and a strong background to play at Tennessee.

Parkview pumps out defensive back talent at a premium. They have a strong coaching staff, one of the best in the southeast. Crawford has progressed since his freshman season, displaying a want and need to get better.

Furthermore, he can play multiple positions, a bonus for Tennessee. They have many available snaps in their backend; the more positions you can play, the more opportunities you have.

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