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.

Several schools, including Tennessee, had told Fullam they were recruiting him to become a linebacker.

“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. “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.

“The past few weeks have been very hectic so it was a huge relief to get it off my chest. Really, I just felt at home at Vanderbilt.”

Fullam is Vanderbilt’s first verbal commitment for the 2009 signing class and is also the first local player to make a commitment. In 2006 he led all Division II-AA schools in tackles with 105 total and another 5.5 for loss. Last season he made 69 tackles, had two interceptions and also scored five offensive touchdowns. 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.

“He’s a contact player and a very tough kid with good tools,” McCallie coach Rick Whitt said. “He’s fluid, has good explosion and a good football mind. He’s got a good chance of being a really fine safety at that level.”

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. He said he will not take visits to any other schools.

“I was pretty much set in stone once I committed,” Fullam said. “As a person, I didn’t want to give one school my word and then go behind their back.

“Ever since I was little it was a dream to play college football. 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.”