DT Jaylon Hutchings chooses Texas Tech

Texas Tech has already had a big week in recruiting, landing four new commits already this week. Until today. This afternoon Forney (TX) defensive tackle Jaylon Hutchings officially pulled the trigger and verbally committed to the Red Raiders, becoming Tech's ninth commit for the 2018 recruiting class.

Hutchings had a chance to talk this afternoon about his decision.

"Honestly I just love the coaching staff and the direction they're headed. I really feel like I fit into this system and what they're trying to do. I can tell they really care about their players."

The standout defensive tackle prospect said his visit to campus on June 2nd enhanced his decision to choose Tech.

"Oh for sure it influenced me. Just to see how they do things down there and the atmosphere around there definitely contributed to the decision."

Hutchings also discussed how the coaching staff sees him fitting in with the defense as well as what he can bring to it.

"They see me playing a little bit of the nose and some 3-technique, but mostly over the center. It's pretty much interchangeable but mostly over the center.

He also mentioned defensive line coach Terrance Jamison and him have built a good relationship since his visit.

"Yes I would day I've got a good relationship with him, He's a really nice guy to talk to and you can tell he really cares about his players. That's what I like about him."

"I think it's good to build that base relationship when you're not there yet and just get to know the coaches better, so for sure I believe that will pay off."

"I'm just hoping to bring some explosiveness, just being able to get off the ball faster," he said. "Being able to get off the ball quicker than the offensive lineman, just that edge of being explosive I think I'll be able to add to the defense, make some plays for them."

As far as what he wants the fans to know about him, Hutchings had this to say:

"I'm going to bring a lot to the table, I'm going to be explosive, and I'm contribute to the best of my ability."

The 6-foot-1, 280 lbs. defensive lineman was impressed with Tech and Lubbock during his visit and believes he will fit right in.

"During my visit, we visited the academics center and we visited the apartments, so I think it's a pretty nice place. I really like it, it's a nice city. I like how it's different out there. For sure I like it."

Hutchings chose Texas Tech over offers from Arkansas State, Kansas State, North Texas, and SMU.