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Tennessee football’s recruiting efforts have taken a significant step forward with the recent commitment of EDGE rusher **CJ Edwards**. The Vols’ coaching staff has made it clear that they are looking to build on their momentum and improve on both sides of the ball, with particular attention being given to the defensive side. Edwards’ commitment has generated a lot of excitement, but many are wondering: is he a hidden gem or a diamond in the rough?

As Tennessee continues to build its program under head coach **Josh Heupel**, who has led the Vols to new heights in terms of offensive production, the defense has remained a focal point for improvement. Recruiting has played a pivotal role in the program’s efforts to elevate its defense, and Edwards, a rising EDGE rusher, might just be the kind of recruit who could help propel Tennessee’s defense into a new era.

But Edwards isn’t a household name like some of the bigger national recruits Tennessee has landed in recent years. So, what makes him such an intriguing prospect, and why is his commitment worth paying attention to? Let’s take a closer look at what Edwards brings to the table, whether he’s truly a “diamond in the rough,” and what his commitment means for Tennessee’s future.

### Who is CJ Edwards?

CJ Edwards hails from **Georgia**, a state that has become a hotbed for elite football talent. Playing for **Morrow High School**, Edwards has put together a standout high school career, showcasing the skills that have made him one of the more coveted EDGE rushers in the Southeast. Standing at 6’5” and weighing around 230 pounds, Edwards combines length, athleticism, and raw power to wreak havoc on opposing offenses.

While Edwards doesn’t have the same immediate star power as some other top prospects, his potential is undeniable. His physical traits, coupled with his work ethic and determination, make him a player who could develop into an elite EDGE rusher at the college level. Edwards is known for his ability to generate pressure on quarterbacks, disrupt offensive lines, and make plays in the backfield, whether it’s through sacks, tackles for loss, or forced fumbles.

What stands out about Edwards is his motor. He’s a relentless player who doesn’t give up on plays, and his ability to fight through blocks and stay engaged in plays has earned him praise from coaches and analysts alike. Edwards’ explosiveness off the line of scrimmage and his ability to bend around the edge are qualities that are highly coveted in modern-day pass rushers.

### What Does CJ Edwards Bring to Tennessee’s Defense?

As Tennessee looks to build a more consistent and powerful defense to complement its high-flying offense, the addition of an EDGE rusher like Edwards is critical. Under Heupel, the Vols have become known for their explosive offensive play, but the defense has often been a work in progress. The Vols have shown improvement in recent years, but there’s still a significant gap to close if they want to compete for SEC championships and national titles.

Edwards’ commitment adds a new dimension to Tennessee’s defensive line and pass rush. The Vols have struggled at times to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks, and this has been especially evident against the elite quarterbacks in the SEC. Having a player with the ability to disrupt plays in the backfield and create chaos will be essential for Tennessee as it moves forward.

Edwards is the kind of versatile player who can line up in different spots and create mismatches. His length and quickness allow him to be a force against both the run and the pass. While it’s still early in his career, he has the potential to develop into a player who can make a significant impact on the edge of Tennessee’s defense, providing a much-needed pass-rush presence that can elevate the unit’s overall performance.

### A Diamond in the Rough?

While Edwards might not be a top-ranked national recruit in the same vein as some other highly touted prospects, his potential makes him a very intriguing “diamond in the rough” for Tennessee. Historically, the Vols have done well at identifying hidden gems in their recruiting classes, and Edwards could follow in the footsteps of former stars who were underappreciated at first but went on to have standout careers.

Edwards has the physical traits of a top-tier EDGE rusher, and that’s why his commitment should excite Tennessee fans. But like many high school recruits, he still has a lot of development ahead of him. His technique and understanding of the game will need to evolve once he steps onto campus, especially as he competes at the SEC level. That said, Edwards has the tools to be molded into a dynamic pass rusher, and with the right coaching, he could develop into a difference-maker for the Vols.

When you look at players who have succeeded in the SEC, many of them didn’t always start as highly ranked recruits. Players like **T.J. Watt** and **Aaron Donald**, two of the top pass rushers in the NFL today, weren’t considered as “can’t-miss” prospects coming out of high school. What separates great players from the rest is a combination of raw talent, development, and coaching. Edwards will have the opportunity to develop under a Tennessee coaching staff that has made significant strides in player development under Heupel.

### What Does This Commitment Mean for Tennessee?

The commitment of CJ Edwards is a sign that Tennessee is continuing to target high-potential recruits who may not yet be household names but have the tools to make an impact on the field. It’s a nod to the fact that the Vols’ coaching staff is looking to improve their defense not just through top-tier, highly ranked recruits, but also by identifying undervalued players who can grow into stars. Edwards might not be the flashiest recruit in Tennessee’s 2024 class, but his skill set and raw potential make him one of the more exciting additions to the Vols’ defense.

In terms of recruiting strategy, Edwards’ commitment shows that Tennessee is building depth in crucial areas. EDGE rushers are often the centerpiece of a team’s defensive front, and getting a player with the physical attributes Edwards possesses helps fill that need. Tennessee has had success in developing defensive talent in recent years, and with Edwards in the fold, the Vols are adding a piece to their defense that could pay dividends down the line.

Edwards’ commitment also sends a message about Tennessee’s recruitment efforts outside of the spotlight. The Vols are putting in the work to uncover talent from areas that might not have been on the radar of every major program. By landing Edwards, Tennessee is showing that they are capable of recruiting effectively in Georgia, a state that produces a wealth of high school football talent.

### Conclusion: A Bright Future for CJ Edwards and Tennessee Football

While CJ Edwards may not be the most well-known recruit in Tennessee’s class, his commitment is a significant one that should give Vols fans plenty to be excited about. He has the physical tools to develop into a major force on the defensive side of the ball, and with the right coaching, he could become one of the SEC’s top pass rushers. The “diamond in the rough” label might be fitting for now, but don’t be surprised if Edwards emerges as one of the standouts of Tennessee’s future defensive lines.

As Tennessee continues to improve under Josh Heupel, adding players like Edwards to the fold only strengthens the foundation for success. Edwards could very well be a key piece in Tennessee’s push to become one of the most competitive programs in the SEC in the coming years, and fans will be keeping a close eye on his development in the months and years to come.