Chris Deloney proved his versatility by playing a variety of positions during his high school football career at Howard. But Hustlin’ Tigers coach Alvin Tarver is eager to see what the three-year starter can do at the next level, concentrating one position.
During a weekend visit to Tennessee State University, Deloney was told he would get the chance to contribute early as a receiver. He liked the idea enough to commit to new TSU head coach Rod Reed.
“TSU knows they just got a real steal,” Tarver said. “He has a great opportunity to make an impact right away as a receiver there. He had to play all over the field for us, but I think once he’s able to learn just one position, there’s no telling how good he can be.
“He’s an awesome athlete — one of the best leapers I have ever seen, so he’ll be a weapon near the goal line. I’m expecting really big things from him at the next level.”
The 6-foot-3, 185-pound Deloney, who has been a two-year starter in basketball and played linebacker and safety at Howard, had more than 350 receiving yards and also became the team’s emergency quarterback last season. He becomes the 15th player from the area to make a commitment and canceled a planned visit to Alabama A&M this weekend, saying he is certain he will sign with TSU on national signing day next Wednesday.
He will join former Howard linebacker Rico Council as well as former Baylor linebacker Sydney Tarver, son of Coach Tarver, on the TSU roster.
“I liked everything about my visit,” Deloney said. “The atmosphere around the program, the new coaching staff and the fact that it’s close enough to home that my family can come watch my games. Plus I like the fact that I already knew a few of the players up there. That should help me adjust.
“It felt real good once I told the coaches and knew for sure where I would be signing. They really like what I can do as a receiver, so I’m excited. I’ll be wearing a different color jersey, but at TSU I’m still a Tiger.”