With just over two weeks remaining before national signing day, two Chattanooga football prospects have decided to end their recruiting process. Brainerd cornerback Kaylen Stewart committed to Tennessee Tech, and East Ridge safety JoJo Tillery gave a verbal pledge to Wofford College.
"It's a big stress relief really to have that decision made," said Stewart, who plans to major in architectural engineering. "I liked everything about it. I could relate well to the coaching staff, and the academic side is really strong."
The 5-foot-9, 162-pound Stewart made 63 tackles, forced four fumbles, recovered two, intercepted two passes, broke up nine others and returned a punt for a touchdown last season. He originally was recruited by the Golden Eagles as a slot receiver but was told he likely now will start out at cornerback.
He also was recruited by Eastern Kentucky, Wofford, Tennessee State, Mercer and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.
Tillery (6-2, 190), who was being recruited by UTC, Tennessee Tech and TSU, committed to Wofford during his official visit last weekend and said he chose the Terriers for a variety of reasons.
"The whole time I was walking around campus there was just a great environment," Tiller said of the Spartanburg, S.C., school. "They have strong academics and I have a really good relationship with the coaching staff. Some of the places recruiting me mentioned I may have to redshirt, but the Wofford coaches told me I will likely play right away."
Contact Stephen Hargis at shargis@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6293.