Nashville's Payton likes Vols

Just a couple of weeks ago, Tennessee's only in-state commitment for the 2017 class was from a kicker. What a difference that week does make as the Vols now hold commitments from five players from Tennessee. Nashville wide receiver Javonta Payton is seeing the swift move in momentum for Tennessee's recruiting class and enjoyed his recent visit to Knoxville.

"It was great and I had real fun with the players and coaches," Payton said. "It was really good to be here and see how everyone interacted and got along. Tennessee is a good place."

Since he was offered by Tennessee earlier this spring, Payton has been slowly taking in the recruiting process. Purdue, Cincinnati and others are also showing heavy interest. So what has stood out about Tennessee's sales pitch?

"They know how to pull you in and make you feel at home," Payton said. "I get a text from Josh Malone all the time and he just checks on me. That really stands out to me."

He really enjoys the Tennessee staff and has a good vibe about what it would be like to play for them. He's also focused on building relationships.

"I'd say it's a tie between coach Butch and coach Z (Azzanni)," Payton said. "Coach Z makes laugh and I think our relationship is good. Both of those guys have made me feel wanted and they show how much they'd love to see me in orange."

As for a leader or a decision, Payton is slowly moving toward both.

"Possibly, but I want to see the other schools and make sure I'm 100% before I make a decision," Payton said. "I may be making my decision soon."

Payton plays for tradition rich Hillsboro in Nashville.