HOW DOES CHATMAN FIT IN WITH THE VOLS?
With two true defensive tackles already in the class (Brant Lawless and D’Andre Litaker), Chatman’s commitment gives Tennessee a versatile lineman who can slide into multiple positions up front. Chatman said his hands and tenacity are his greatest strengths and he “doesn’t care at all” whether he plays strong-side end or tackle for Tennessee.
"Whatever can help the team,” he said.
Ultimately, he likely projects as a 5-technique, especially with his powerful punch and ability to both plug gaps and set the edge. Chatman is a bit undersized and needs to reshape his body in a college strength and conditioning program, but he has a competitiveness that's contagious. He was an integral part of Rome’s state championship team, and has plenty of experience playing against some of the top competition in the Southeast.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR TENNESSEE?
Tennessee now has three defensive lineman committed for its 2018 class. The Vols would like to sign six in total this year, with Top 50 prospect Greg Emerson headlining their remaining targets.
Tennessee is in great shape for the U.S. Army All-American from Jackson (Tenn.), and with Chatman, Litaker and Lawless already on board, look for the Vols to sign a couple traditional pass rushers for the final few spots.
Top targets include JUCO defensive end Dorian Gerald, Marietta (Ga.) product Azeez Ojulari, Miller Grove (Ga.) end Caleb Tannor and Armwood (Fla.) prospect Malcolm Lamar. Other names to watch are Richard Jibunor, Malik Langham, Nick Fulwider and Caleb Kelly.
