Bradley Central defensive end Tucker Bolton has committed to sign with Appalachian State. The 6-foot-4, 230-pound Bolton said he chose the Mountaineers in part because of the relationship he has developed with defensive coordinator Dale Jones, who played at Bradley Central in the early 1980s.
“Coach Jones is really cool and we’ve had a lot to talk about,” Bolton said. “I know with him there, I will be treated right. They’re pretty excited to get me and I feel comfortable with their whole program. I’m not sure if they want me to play defensive end or linebacker, but wherever is fine. I just want to get on the field and play.
“I like their program a lot. They have a great tradition and play for national championships about every year.”
This season Bolton made 112 solo tackles and 36 assists. He led the area with 38.5 tackles for loss and also had 12.5 sacks and 13 quarterback hurries, helping the Bears reach the second round of the playoffs for the first time in 10 years.
Bolton is also being recruited by the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Eastern Kentucky, Tennessee Tech and Carson-Newman. He said he still plans to visit UTC.
Contact Stephen Hargis at shargis@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6293.