With national signing day now nine days away, the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga football program took a big step toward solidifying it 2017 class with a big weekend.
Seven recruits made official visits and five committed, with three of those defensive backs. A sixth player, offensive lineman Clayton McConnell, reaffirmed his decision to attend UTC.
Two of those commitments came from Cairo, Ga., in Jamal Thomas, a 5-foot-11, 170-pound free safety, and outside linebacker Jahsari Patterson (6-0, 201).
Thomas had 46 tackles, six pass breakups and an interception for the Syrupmakers, who finished 11-2 this past season while reaching the GHSA Class AAAA quarterfinals. He also blocked two punts and a field goal.
Patterson finished with 105 tackles (seven for loss), two sacks, nine quarterback pressures and an interception.