Receiver Mecole Hardman (5-10, 175) has been near the top of UT’s recruiting board for the entire 2016 cycle, has made multiple visits to Knoxville and he did nothing but boost his stock at the the finals of The Opening in Beaverton, Ore., over the past few days.
Hardman finished eighth overall in the Nike SPARQ testing, posting a total score of 134.07. He stood out most in the 40-yard dash, where he tied for second overall with a time of 4.32 seconds. He also posted an impressive vertical leap of 40.4 inches and a solid 20-yard shuttle time at 4.0.
We caught up with Hardman briefly as he was finishing up at The Opening to get an update on his recruitment as the Vols look to remain a top contender for the Elberton, Ga., native.
Q: Do you have any plans to visit Tennessee before signing day?
A: Yeah, of course. I’m visiting on Orange Carpet Day.
Q: Have you narrowed your list down any?
A: No, not right now. I’m just looking at a lot of schools and when I feel comfortable with a set of schools I will narrow it down.
Q: What do you like about Tennessee?
A: I just like everything. I like the fans, coaches and the facilities.
Q: What Tennessee coaches have you been talking to the most?
A: Coach Jones and Coach Z (Azzanni)
Q: When are you planning to make a decision?
A: I’m planning on making a decision on signing day.
Q: How do you think the coaches would use you at Tennessee?
A: They would use me at the wide receiver position.
Q: Did you like the new Nike gear?
A: The Nike gear is crazy. I like it.
Q: What’s your favorite thing about Butch Jones?
A: He’s really laid back and down to Earth.
Q: What are you trying to improve on this year?
A: Just to be a better player and a better leader.
