Josh Heupel met with reporters Wednesday to discuss the Vols’ Early Signing Day class, which currently ranks No. 11 in the country.

The Vols head coach was asked specifically about what he’s seen in brief glimpses of 5-star WR Mike Matthews, who is the Vols’ 2nd highest-rated prospect in the cycle. Matthews, who is the No. 28 overall prospect in the country, has enjoyed some work with the Vols as they prep for the Citrus Bowl against Iowa.

Here’s what Heupel had to say regarding Matthews:

“Mike Matthews has been really good,” Heupel said. “First 3, 4 days already out on the grass, got great length, just talking about his wingspan. Extremely explosive, the ability to go up and high-point a ball over the middle of the football field or out on the edge as he’s going vertically. As a wide receiver, you’re gonna have to develop the ability to play versus man press at the line of scrimmage. Those are things that you typically don’t see (in high school). But a really bright guy that has got a great future.”

Tennessee’s class is quietly very strong. The Vols hold a commitment from an elite pass rusher, the No. 11 overall prospect in the country, Jordan Ross. There are offensive weapons in Matthews, 4-star WR Braylon Staley and 4-star RB Peyton Lewis. And there are some strong pieces along the offensive line in top-300 prospects Bennett Warren and Max Anderson.

Finally, the Vols have a pledge from a 4-star QB, Jake Merklinger, and 2 strong pieces in the secondary, Boo Carter and Kaleb Beasley. Carter could play either offense or defense for Tennessee.

Ethan Stone

Ethan Stone is a Tennessee graduate and loves all things college football and college basketball. Firm believer in fouling while up 3.