Hudson PettyHudson Petty, one of the Chattanooga area's most accomplished and versatile prep football players last season, has committed to Jacksonville State University.
Petty, a three-time all-state selection who played safety on defense as well as every offensive skill position during his prep career, helped lead Whitwell to a 15-0 season and the Class 1A state championship in 2018.
He chose the Alabama program over Tennessee Tech, having made official visits to each campus the past two weekends.
"I was at Jacksonville State last weekend and really liked it, and after visiting Tech, that just helped me realize where I wanted to be," said Petty, who will sign with the perennial Football Championship Subdivision power on Wednesday, national signing day.
"I like the atmosphere around the town at Jacksonville State because it reminded me of home, and I like the coaching staff. It's close to home, so my mom and dad and grandparents and friends can all come to watch and support me, and that was a really big deal."
Last season, Petty was among the state's leaders with 103.5 solo tackles, and he had 11 tackles for loss and four interceptions. He also totaled more than 1,400 yards of offense and was a Mr. Football semifinalist.
He was named MVP of the state championship game after making 16 tackles, picking off a pass, rushing for 40 yards and throwing for the Tigers' touchdown in their 7-6 win against Cornersville in December at Tennessee Tech.
"It's every kid's dream to win a state championship and to go play big-time college football," Petty said. "Those were dreams and goals I had set for myself, so it feels really good to have accomplished them.
"It's been a stressful last few weeks because signing day was coming and I wanted to have my decision made before then. It's a relief now to know where I'll be playing."
Contact Stephen Hargis at shargis@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6293. Follow him on Twitter @StephenHargis.