Smokey Gray?

The swing in 17' is fully underway and it will be centered around the instate kids. After all, it's a huge year in the Volunteer state.

LaVergne, Tennessee athlete Maleik Gray will be right at the top of the wish list and even he knows that the next year will fly by.

"That's what makes it frustrating because I'll have to make my decision sooner or later," Gray said. "I have so many factors because academics are important, but I want to make an impact as a true freshman. Just make plays and show what I can do."

He has offers from just about anyone and everyone. Most project him to play linebacker at the next level and he is taking notice of what Butch Jones and company are doing on Rocky Top.

"They are on the rise," Gray said. "Jalen Hurd, Josh Malone, Derek Barnett are all coming back and with the rising talent they are going to be good in the future. Coach Jones came by my school last week and I know that me staying in state is important to him."

All of the players that Gray pointed out were from the mid-state just like himself. He sees their ability to earn early playing time and do big things and he fully expects to have that chance no matter where he attends.

"I used to train with all of those guys," Gray said. "I think that helps their case because they have a track record of playing guys early. In my mind I'm the best when I step out there and I'm trying to make plays anytime I'm on the field. I think I can be that next guy."

At 6-foot-2 and 200 pounds, Gray is aggressive and ferocious between the white lines. He loves contact and feels like he can be a real asset.

"I feel like I attack ball and really go get ball," Gray said. "I'm just trying to make plays and feel like I play sideline to sideline. I have good speed and really just try to do whatever is necessary to make the plays."

A disappointing Junior season ended with an early round playoff loss. LaVergne is fully healthy and have fellow 4-star wide receiver Princeton Fant coming off injury. The expectations are once again there for Gray and his teammates.

"I think with Princeton back," Gray said about contending next season. "We also have other guys that can step up and just get in the mind-set of working hard and believing. I know it's going to take a lot of hard work, but I dream big."

With several other high profile prospects in and around him in middle Tennessee, it's only natural to think about playing together.

"I've spoken with Jacoby (Stevens), Princeton and Gentry Bonds about the chance to stay instate and player together," Gray said. "They were for it so it's definitely something we could all end up doing."

As for the current moment, Gray is working on his basketball game and enjoying the end of his Junior season.

"Just enjoying basketball," Gray said. "I love playing and it's something that keeps me in shape. I love to rebound and I have a very high vertical so I can dunk the ball."

Gray plans on camping at the Rivals camp in Atlanta this Spring.<b>Rivals.com</b> ranks Gray as a 4-star athlete in the class of 2017.