Tennessee linebacker Chris Weatherd, right, and linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin, left, tackle Utah State running back Joe Hill during the Vols’ season opener against the Aggies at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville in this file photo.KNOXVILLE – Chris Weatherd was the last member of Tennessee’s touted 2014 recruiting class to arrive on campus.
He was the first of the newcomers to make a play once the season began.
After finishing some academic work and a couple of online classes this summer, the junior college transfer linebacker finally received clearance to join the Volunteers in the middle of July, more than six weeks after the rest of the class arrived on campus.
He made his collegiate debut, though, on the second play of the Vols’ season-opening win against Utah State and combined with Jalen Reeves-Maybin for a tackle for loss.
“The guy that showed up the latest played the earliest,” Tennessee defensive coordinator John Jancek said giddily Wednesday. “Chris is a dynamic pass-rusher. He’s got some really good physical characteristics in regards to pass rushing. He doesn’t know a lot about the package, but you’ve got to find a way.