Jay Fullam, a two-time all-state defensive back for McCallie School, has committed to play for Vanderbilt University. The 6-foot-1, 190 pound Fullam also had offers from the Naval Academy, Air Force and Northwestern and was being recruited by Tennessee, Alabama, Auburn, Florida and LSU.

“I’ve been talking with a bunch of coaches lately and finally just sat down with my family to decide where I would best fit,” Fullam said this morning. “I like the fact that Vandy likes me as a safety more than possibly as a linebacker. They also said that, depending on how I adjust, I have a good shot at early playing time. That would be a bonus.”

Fullam is Vanderbilt’s first verbal commitment for the 2009 signing class and the first Chattanooga-area commitment.

In 2006, he led all Division II-AA schools in tackles with 105 and had another 5.5 tackles for loss. Last season, he had 69 tackles, two interceptions and scored five offensive touchdowns as a running back. He has averaged 28.8 yards as the Blue Tornado’s kick returner and was recently timed at 4.6 seconds in the 40-yard dash at the U.S. Army National Combine.

Praised by recruiters for his versatility, aggressive hitting and football intelligence, Fullam was recently added to ESPN’s “150 Watch” list as one of the top 150 juniors in the country.

“Ever since I was little, it was a dream to play college football,” Fullam said. “I never thought it would come true until I got contacted by so many schools recently. Now I’m pretty relieved that this process is over, and I can just concentrate on getting ready for my senior season.”

See tomorrow's Chattanooga Times Free Press for full coverage.

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