The Vols have completed the majority of the work in their 2024 signing class a few weeks before early national signing day. The coaching staff believes that they have added a number of elite players who will have an immediate impact on this roster. Mike Matthews, a five-star wide receiver, is one of those players.
Matthews plays prep football for Parkview High School in Lilburn, Georgia. He is about 6-2 and 180 pounds. Matthews, who was just named the Region 4-7A Offensive Player of the Year, has committed to play in the Under Armour All-American Bowl. After weighing his options, which included USC, Tennessee, Clemson, Georgia, and other universities, Matthews made his decision official on July 19. After making his decision, he was committed to the Vols and never showed anyswitching or withdrawing.
Matthews is entering a situation that is riddled with uncertainties. Many players’ decisions are still pending for Tennessee, including Dont’e Thornton and Bru McCoy. Throughout the season, a few wide receivers have also struggled for the Vols. Tennessee has a number of highly talented wide receivers in their potential room.
Bru McCoy (assuming a comeback)
White Squirrel
Don’t’e Thornton (Unless you come back)
Kaleb Webb and Chas Nimrod
Leacock, Nathan
Michael Matthews
Staley Braylon
With or without injuries, the five-star player might see significant playing time. What is his initial base value to this staff, I wonder? If it’s really high, there’s a good chance you’ll see him in a spot between four and six before the season even starts, which would mean he would be the starting team’s backup during his rookie season. Since Matthews is very physical and can play outside or in the slot when lined up at wide
receiver, some may start clamoring for the true freshman to get more snaps and possibly even starting time if he dominates during camp. Regardless of the course the Vols take when
it comes to playing time, it is imperative to at least allow Matthews to get some during the first season.pertains to this particular prospect. Many believe Matthews will eventually be quarterback Nico Iamaleava’s top choice, and the more time he gets, the more quickly he develops.
