Tennessee now has 19 commitments for the 2024 class. The Vols’ class, which includes nine players who are rated four-star prospects by 247Sports and a pair of five-stars, remains at No. 12 nationally in the 247Sports Composite team rankings. Echols, who started his high school career at Heard County High School in Franklin, Ga., caught 14 passes for 232 yards and four touchdowns this season at IMG Academy. to 247Sports’ official evaluation of him, written by 247Sports director of scouting Andrew Ivins, Echols “has the testing numbers and athletic profile that scouts covet.”
“Initially was graded out as an EDGE, but has made it very clear that he views himself as a tight end on Saturdays and not a pass rusher,” Ivins wrote of Echols. “Quickly made a name for himself during his first semester at IMG Academy, posting a laser-timed 4.8 in the 40-yard dash to go along with a 4.5 short shuttle and a 120-inch broad jump at the national powerhouse’s annual Pro Day.
“Spent the bulk of his junior campaign working as an h-back and jumbo slot receiver in a run-heavy attack, but did line up attached every now and then. Initial burst combined with a longer stride allows him to cover a ton of ground. Not exactly polished as a route runner, but knows how to get to his spots and slip underneath defenders as he crosses the field. Hands have improved over the past six months or so, but extra work on the Jugs machine will help.
“Must also eventually add mass to a slender frame if he’s going to move defenders out of the way at the Power Five level. Overall, should be viewed as one of the more unique prospects in the 2024 cycle. Will likely get a chance to play offense at the school of his choice, but ceiling might ultimately be highest on defense with his length (81-inch wingspan) and balance.”
