ForumsKnoxville, TN.- Tennessee fans and coaches all know the importance of keeping the top talent in state. Head coach Derek Dooley is working hard to keep the top several prospects in Tennessee to build his first class around. There are several standout players and the Vols appear to be in it for most, if not all of them. Jabriel Washington is one that left for Alabama however, and it doesn’t appear that the Tide are going to stop coming after top Tennessee players anytime soon. Knoxville Catholic offensive lineman Kyler Kerbyson has been quiet lately about his recruitment. But decided to open up a little on Sunday. Here is what his thoughts were at that moment.
“Yeah I’ve been trying to narrow things down if I can. I know Tennessee and Alabama are up there. Duke is up there and they are coming hard. Georgia will be too if they offer, which looks like it might happen soon. Arkansas and Florida are up there too for me. I have about 19 offers right now. I can’t think of all of them. Kansas and Cincinnati were a couple recent ones. As I mentioned Georgia and Florida have been coming on strong lately, but they have not offered.”
At 6’5″ 290 pounds he has great versatility to play anywhere on the line. And he also adds versatility to play on offense or defense. He mentioned he is being recruited for both sides of the ball and multiple line positions.
“Some are telling me defense and some offense. I have no preference where I play. I just want to play football. They all tell me they really like my footwork. I’m just trying to work on everything in my game. I want to get as good as I can all around.”
The recruiting process can be tiresome to many or can be the chance of a lifetime. This is a major factor for recruits when ultimately making their decision. Some look to make the decision early to cut down attention, while others ride it out to take in the glamor. Kyler offered his thoughts on recruiting in general and his commitment plans.
“I’ve been thinking about it, I want to commit before senior season, but I won’t if I’m not completely ready though. I’m just looking for a good school that wins games and has good academics. The process is a little bit of both, it can be fun but also overwhelming at times. It’s overwhelming when you talk to so many coaches and media during the day sometimes.”
With Tennessee and Alabama putting themselves at the top for now, he talked about each school for a moment.
“I’m hearing a lot from Tennessee, they have stepped up. I think they will be a contender. They are all really great guys and they are going to do good this season.”
“Alabama, overall it’s a good school, they win games and have great academics. They are the national champs, and they look good to do it again this year.”
Tennessee fans often cringe at the name of their former head coach, Lane Kiffin. Now at USC, coach Kiffin has not forgotten about the top targets in Tennessee from Southern California.
“Yeah they are recruiting me hard. I hear from the offensive line coach a lot, we talk a couple times per week.”
So far Kyler has been to Vanderbilt, Tennessee, Clemson, and Duke for junior days. His next planned visits include a camp at Tennessee, one at Duke, and checking on some other southeast schools while he is making the rounds.
His two older brothers both played at Knox Catholic, and he mentioned that they, along with his parents and coaches, will help him in making this decision.
Florida State, Stanford, Alabama, USC, Maryland are some of his other offers.
ESPNU Scouts Inc Evaluation:
Kerbyson is a strong run blocker with good athleticism. Has the size for the offensive tackle position at the major level of competition. Shows good flexibility in a three point stance; comes off the ball with good initial quickness but at times his initial fit and pad level are too high on contact. Is not overwhelming explosive but gets good movement when drive blocking as he plays with a good base and the leg drive necessary to sustain blocks; has the ability to walk defenders off the line when single blocking. Displays good quickness and balance to second level defenders; makes good initial contact while showing the ability to play on his feet in space; runs well and looks to get a second block downfield. Also demonstrates the quick first step necessary to reach and gain up field leverage on shaded defenders. Shows good pull / trap ability for a big man; is able to kick out and finish strong at the point of attack. His arm length and nimble feet are positives in pass protection; initial quick set will need to improve however we see the ability to bend, slide and play flat footed working to the deep set point. His initial punch, location and extension will need refinement; tends to lean in at times. This is a tough aggressive prospect with the athletic tools and playing strength to make all the necessary blocks at the next level. We like the way he finishes blocks, attempting to dominate opponents. Kerbyson may not step in as an immediate starter however he could see early playing time if a red shirt year is not deemed necessary.
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