I won't buy any of it as long as he still has Alabama Commit under his name. This isn't a typical flip.... this kid has been a die hard Alabama guy, as soon as finding out he had to go Juco, he lamented it and spoke about trying to get back there, and then just like a week or so recommitted to them. All of a sudden theres steam to him coming to us? Idk.... doesn't pass the smell test to me.
However... with that said, if you look at it from the perspective of a JUCO guy only has 1-2 years to showcase his skills if he wants to go to the pros. He'd be behind the 8-ball there on account of their being a roster full of guys who have been in the program and know the system, as well as being likely equally as talented as he is.
Additionally, Nick Saban just turned 67 (today). Will he still be coaching in two years? Probably.... but will he still be coaching in three years or four years while JD is at AU? Possibly but maybe not. Want to go into your senior, potential showcase year, with a new head coaching staff?
Whereas you come to Tennessee at 21 years old, and we'll have some horses from the '19 class, but they'll only be sophmores when JD arrives. He could likely start over them if he's worth a damn. Pruitt and his staff are just starting out so there will be continuity. You stay in state, at a school you once had an affinity for. There are pro's to coming here.
That said, not buying it at this time.