JJ Finch flips from Alabama to Tennessee

Tennessee flipped longtime Alabama commitment JJ Finch on national signing day as the Indianapolis defensive lineman made things official in his signing with the Vols. Finch visited Tennessee again in early November and his experience with the program just stuck with him.

“Really it was just the momentum the team and the program has here,” Finch said of what led to him returning to Tennessee in early November.

“I would say just the opportunity,” Finch said of what stood out the most. “There is a lot of opportunity here, especially on the defensive line. You are going to get an opportunity here to straight up show your talents.”

Finch said he continued to hear from Tennessee Defensive Line coach Rodney Garner and Head Coach Josh Heupel on a routine basis after committing to Alabama. The Vols persistence proved to be the magic elixir to flipping him from the Crimson Tide.

“They never stopped recruiting me,” Finch said. “They just tell me about the NFL and Coach G. And the process is something I take serious. Coming here and being developed would be nice.”

Tennessee looks to build young defensive line

Tennessee will be looking for fresh bodies on the defensive interior next fall after losing a handful of older veterans like a Bryson Eason, Dominic Bailey and Jaxson Moi.

Dating back to the summer when Finch was in town on his official visit in June, the Vols message has been clear to the Midwest standout about their believe in his ability.

“They talk about my versatility on the defensive line and how they would be able to use me in the future on Rocky Top,” Finch said previously.”

Finch will be an early enrollee and will start school at Tennessee in January. All but two of Tennessee’s signees are set to enroll next month.