VIDEO: Mike Clowney Interview
JEFFERSON CITY, Tenn. Carson-Newman head football coach Mike Clowney has announced the signing of 31 student athletes who will join the Carson-Newman football program.
Carson-Newman's 2022 signing class is comprised of players from eight states. Tennessee is the top producer with 11 signees. Florida and Georgia follow suit with seven and six, respectively.
"We feel like we addressed our needs with this class," Carson-Newman head football coach Mike Clowney said. "We were able to inject competitive depth into our team at multiple positions. We signed high-quality character players who will not only contribute here at Carson-Newman, but are prepared to contribute in the world once they graduate."
| Last Name | First Name | Height | Weight | Hometown | Previous School | Position |
| Adams | Eli | 6'0" | 220 | Greenville, S.C. | ASA Miami | Linebacker |
| Baker | Champ | 5' 11" | 170 | Lilburn, Ga. | Parkview | Defensive Back |
| Bohleber | Isaac | 6'0" | 205 | Knoxville, Tenn. | West | Linebacker |
| Brackett | Austin | 6'0" | 195 | Spring City, Tenn. | Rhea County | Linebacker |
| Brown | Mekhi | 6'3" | 205 | Wauchula, Fla. | Hardee | Linebacker |
| Chalmers | Zack | 6' 3" | 190 | Newberry, S.C. | Newberry | Wide Receiver |
| Crowder | Brooks | 5'11" | 160 | Knoxville, Tenn. | Seymour | Wide Receiver |
| Curtis | Tyler | 6' 1" | 225 | Lilburn, Ga. | Dodge City CC | Running Back |
| Dade | Solomon | 6'2" | 275 | Pompano Beach, Fla. | Stranahan | Defensive Line |
| Do | Brian | 6' 1" | 280 | Houston, Texas | Houston Baptist | Offensive Line |
| Dunnigan | Cooper | 6' 4" | 250 | Dublin, Va. | Palmetto Prep | Offensive Line |
| Dunning | Don | 5'10" | 215 | Nashville, Tenn. | Dickson County | Running Back |
| Gibson | Fletcher | 6' 4" | 305 | Kingsport, Tenn. | West Ridge | Offensive Line |
| Gillespie | Zayquan | 6'0" | 180 | Gatlinburg, Tenn. | ETSU | Defensive Back |
| Hart | Nick | 6' 2" | 280 | Lawrenceville, Ga. | Palmetto Prep | Offensive Line |
| Jackson | Jaaron | 6' 2" | 240 | Lakeland, Fla. | Alcorn State | Linebacker |
| Jefferson | Nicholas | 5' 10" | 160 | Port St. Joe, Fla. | Port St. Joe | Wide Receiver |
| Kibler | Skyyler | 6'6" | 235 | Lenoir City, Tenn. | Roane County | Tight End |
| Lawrence | Erie | 5' 10" | 200 | Nashville, Tenn. | East Los Angeles CC | Linebacker |
| Lilly | Na'Heim | 5'10" | 200 | Randleman, N.C. | Eastern Randolph | Running Back |
| Luttrell III | Tre | 6' 1" | 190 | Mt. Airy, Ga. | Lenoir-Rhyne | Quarterback |
| McLemore | Jarrett | 6'0" | 245 | Maryville, Tenn. | Heritage | Offensive Line |
| McMullin | Sam | 6' 4" | 275 | Vicksburg, Miss. | East Central CC | Offensive Line |
| Needs | Tyler | 6' 3" | 245 | Talbott, Tenn. | Morristown West | Tight End |
| Nelson | Tyree | 5' 11" | 200 | Atlanta, Ga. | Western Carolina | Running Back |
| Nussman | Gabe | 5' 9" | 185 | Waynesville, N.C. | Pisgah | Running Back |
| Oneal | Sedrick | 6' 3" | 238 | Atlanta, Ga. | Maynard Jackson | Linebacker |
| Peppin | Mike | 6' 3" | 320 | Palm Coast, Fla. | Tusculum | Offensive Line |
| Walton | Ja'Laun | 6'0" | 200 | Tampla, Fla. | Erskine | Defensive Back |
| Whitson | Zane | 6' 3" | 180 | Kingsport, Tenn. | Middle Tennessee State | Quarterback |
| WIlliams | Major | 6' 1" | 190 | Fort Myers, Fla. | Virginia | Defensive Back |
Players are listed in the order in which their committments are received.
A note to signees and families, just because we have received your information, doesn't mean we can publish your information. We have to receive clearance from compliance and admissions before we release a name to the public.
Final as of 4:24 p.m.
Tyree Nelson – 5-11 – 200 – RB – Atlanta, Ga. – Mays – Western Carolina - @ty_str88
PRIOR TO CARSON-NEWMAN: Saw action in five of the team's nine games, each coming in the spring semester as an offensive reserve and on special teams … Recorded three rushes for four yards and returned six kickoffs for 162 yards, finishing with 169 all-purpose yards … Made his collegiate debut at Samford (Feb. 27), rushing three times for four yards and returned one kickoff for 26 yards … Returned a pair of kickoffs against VMI (March 6) and at Mercer (March 20), tallying a career-long return of 59 yards against the Bears.
HIGH SCHOOL: Three-time all-region selection … Tabbed top running back three times and received the M=r. Benjamin E. Mays award as a senior … Rushed for 813 yards on 121 carries with 11 touchdowns before a leg injury in his final season as a prep … Was an honorable mention 6-A Georgia All-State from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution … Rushed for over 1,000 yards as a sophomore, collecting second-team All-Region 5-6A … Earned MVP honors at running back at the Elite GA Showcase … Listed as a three-star recruit by 247Sports.com and a two-star recruit by Rivals.com … High school coach was Niketa Battle … Also ran track as a prep where he was selected MVP.
Commit #️⃣1️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Tyree Nelson – 5-11 – 200 – RB – Atlanta, Ga. – Mays – Western Carolina - @ty_str88
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/Zxi1x22INU
Jaaron Jackson – 6-2 – 240 – DL/LB – Lakeland, Fla. – Kathleen High - Alcorn State - @JarronJackson
High School: As a Brave, Jackson held 20 career tackles, five sacks, six and a half tackles for loss, five fumble recoveries, and 10 career starts for Alcorn State. Voted Most Improved Player at Alcorn State. Helped guide the Braves to being two-time South Western-Athletic Conference (SWAC) Champions.
Personal: Son of Sybille Oldham- Jackson and the late Johnnie Jackson. His uncle Duane Drisdom played safety at Florida A&M and in the NFL with Oakland Raiders; his cousin Eric Gallon II played linebacker at Kansas State, and his uncle Eric Gallon played running back at Kansas State. Jackson graduated Cum laude after being named a 4-time SWAC Academic All-American and making the Dean's List in seven semesters. Intends to pursue a Masters of Business Administration while at Carson-Newman.
Commit #️⃣2️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Jaaron Jackson – 6-2 – 240 – LB – Lakeland, Fla. – Kathleen High - Alcorn State - @JarronJackson
�� https://t.co/Fc64XhyCcF#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/vYp15VpLsK
Brian Do – 6-1 – 280 – OL – Houston, Texas – Northbrook – Houston Baptist/Saint Anselm - @TheDoBoyyyy-
2021 (AT Saint Anselm): Appeared in all but one game as a member of Saint Anselm's offensive line.
2020 (At Saint Anslem): Saint Anselm opted out of the 2020 season due to CoVID.
2019 (At Houston Baptist): Did not see game action for the Huskies.
HIGH SCHOOL: Graduate of Northbrook HS...Played football and ran track & field for the Raiders...A member of the Key and Interact clubs in high school...A member of the National English Honor Society...Was First Team All-State Academic District for football and track & field.
PERSONAL: Son of Hiep and Julie.. Aspires to work for Google or join the United States Air Force upon graduation.
Commit #️⃣3️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Brian Do – 6-1 – 280 – OL – Houston, Texas – Northbrook – Houston Baptist/Saint Anselm - @TheDoBoyyyy
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/ukacXOBtTT
Major Williams – 6-1 – 190 – DB – Fort Myers, Fla. – Parkview – Virginia - @TrulyBl3ssed17
PRIOR TO CARSON-NEWMAN: In 2019, he Appeared in three of UVA's 14 games … made collegiate debut against Liberty … one of 17 UVA true freshmen to appear in 2019 … retained redshirt under new NCAA rules.
HIGH SCHOOL: Appeared in three of UVA's 14 games … made collegiate debut against Liberty … one of 17 UVA true freshmen to appear in 2019 … retained redshirt under new NCAA rules.
PERSONAL: The son of Alexaudrea Edison. Intends to study physical education at Carson-Newman. His brother (Antavian Edison) played at Purdue University from 2009-2012.
Commit #️⃣4️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Major Williams – 6-1 – 190 – DB – Fort Myers, Fla. – Parkview – Virginia - @TrulyBl3ssed17
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/Qj5Oatw76m
Mike Peppin – 6-3 – 320 – OL – Palm Coast, Fla. – Flagler-Palm Coast - Tusculum - @m_peppin70
PRIOR TO CASRON-NEWMAN: Started nine games and appeared in 11 at Tusculum in 2021. Prior to that, logged five starts in the spring of 2021 and the fall of 2020.
HIGH SCHOOL: Graduated from Flagler Palm Coast HS in Bunnell, Fla... Coached by Tommy Moody (football) and David Halliday... Lettered four years in football... Two-time All-Conference.
PERSONAL: Son of Michael and Vicky Peppin..
Commit #️⃣5️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Mike Peppin – 6-3 – 320 – OL – Palm Coast, Fla. – Flagler-Palm Coast - Tusculum - @m_peppin70
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/q04hGmUOXr
Tyler Needs – 6-3 – 245 – TE – Talbott, Tenn. – Morristown West - @tylerneeds58
High School: First team All-Conference at Morristown West. Represented East Tennessee at the East Tennessee vs Knox County All-Star Game. Helped lead the Trojans to an appearance in the 2021 state playoffs.
Personal: Son of Melissa Needs and Carson-Newman Director of Track & Field and Cross-Country David Needs. Chose C-N over Gardner-Webb and West Georgia. Intends to major in physical education
Commit #️⃣6️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Tyler Needs – 6-3 – 245 – TE – Talbott, Tenn. – Morristown West - @tylerneeds58
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/Hr7NXWk33Y
Tyler Curtis – 6-1 – 228 – RB – Lilburn, Ga. – Parkview – Dodge City Community College - @26tcurt
High School: Played running back at Parkview High School, averaging 10.4 yards per carry for the Panthers. Earned All-Region Honorable Mention honors. Was also a member of the track & field squad.
Prior to Carson-Newman: Played one season at Dodge City Community College in Kansas.
Personal: Son of Tracie and Ray Curtis. Chose C-N over Akron and Kent State. Intends to major in exercise science
Commit #️⃣7️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Tyler Curtis – 6-1 – 228 – RB – Lilburn, Ga. – Parkview – Dodge City Community College - @26tcurt
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/rUhGVofOvT
Elijah Adams – 6-0 – 220 – LB – Marietta, S.C. – Greenville Senior High Academy – ASA Miami - @E_Adams0
High School: Member of the Raiders football, baseball, basketball, track, and wrestling programs. Named an All-State and All-Region selection.
Personal: Son of Fabian Adams and Halima Ambaly. Named an Academic All-American. Undecided major for Carson-Newman.
Commit #️⃣8️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Elijah Adams – 6-0 – 220 – LB – Marietta, S.C. – Greenville Senior High Academy – ASA Miami - @E_Adams0
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/G4f6Db919f
Erie Lawrence Jr. – 5-10 – 200 – LB – Nashville, Tenn. – Hume-Fogg Academic – East Los Angeles Community College - @erie_lawrence
Prior to Carson-Newman: Played one year at East Los Angeles Community College. Moved back to linebacker, recording 30 solo tackles, 6.5 sacks, 7.5 tackles for loss, forced one fumble and recovered one fumble in his freshman season with the Huskies.
High School: Moved from linebacker to defensive lineman his senior year at Hume-Fogg Academic High School. Recorded 60 solo tackles, 16 tackles for loss, five sacks, two force fumbles, three fumble recoveries and a pass break up his final year with the Blue Knights. Was a three year captain for the Blue Knights, leading his team to the TSSAA 5A playoffs every single season he played. Was also a member of the wrestling and track & field teams.
Personal: Son of Shanta Morris and Erie Lawrence Sr. Chose C-N over Virginia Union, Lindsey Wilson, Culver-Stockton College and University of the Cumberlands. Intends to major in business administration.
Commit #️⃣9️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Erie Lawrence Jr. – 5-10 – 200 – LB – Nashville, Tenn. – Hume-Fogg Academic – East Los Angeles Community College - @erie_lawrence
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/PRaxiMYsnI
Tre Lutrell – 6-1 – 200 – QB – Gainesville, Ga. – Habersham Central – Lenoir-Rhyne - @tre_luttrell
PRIOR TO CARSON-NEWMAN: Finished the spring 2021 season with a pair of games played and totaled three grabs for 31 yards with a long of 19 yards. In the fall, he had six catches for 57 yards with a long of 17 yards against Virginia State. As a freshman, the jack-of-all-trades finished with a rushing touchdown, a receiving touchdown and a special teams touchdown . . . finished with 11 carries for 50 yards and two catches for 26 yards . . . had a 12-yard blocked punt return for a touchdown to give LR a 7-0 lead in the Second Round of the NCAA Playoffs against Carson-Newman.
HIGH SCHOOL: Region 8 6A POTY in football for Habersham Central HS. He gobbled up 3,000 all-purpose yards and scored 30 touchdowns.
PERSONAL: The son of Stan and Kim Lutrell, both his parents played sports at Carson-Newman, with father Stan suiting up for the football program and mother Kim playing women's soccer.
Commit #️⃣��
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Tre Lutrell – 6-1 – 200 – QB – Gainesville, Ga. – Habersham Central – Lenoir-Rhyne - @tre_luttrell
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/sW8vVBmMvs
Zayquan Gillespie – 6-0 – 180 – DB – Gatlinburg, Tenn. – Gatlinburg-Pittman – East Tennessee State - @king_quan12
PRIOR TO CARSON-NEWMN: Named to the SoCon Honor Roll … Did not appear in any games in the 2021 spring season for ETSU.
High School: Multi-sport athlete from Gatlinburg Pittman High School – lettered in football and basketball … Three-time all-conference selection in football and two-time all-conference member in basketball … Scored 1,325 career points in basketball.
Personal: Nephew of Rashid and Katie Moore … Uncle Rashid Moore played football at Maryville from 2003-06, while his other uncle Carlos Gillespie played football at Knoxville College in 1994-95.
Commit #️⃣1️⃣1️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Zayquan Gillespie – 6-0 – 180 – DB – Gatlinburg, Tenn. – Gatlinburg-Pittman – East Tennessee State - @king_quan12
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/cH6MCebqXy
Sam McMullin – 6-4 – 275 – OL – Vicksburg, Miss. – Saint Aloysius – East Central Community College - @wcbigmac
Prior to Carson-Newman: Was an offensive tackle at East Central Community College in Mississippi.
High School: Recorded 24 tackles and a pair of sacks his senior year while playing both offensive and defensive line for Saint Aloysius High School. Was named to the 2019 MAIS All-District Team.
Personal: Son of Brandie and Chad McMullin. Chose C-N over ULM, Delta State and SAGU. Intends to major in Exercise Science.
Commit #️⃣1️⃣2️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Sam McMullin – 6-4 – 275 – OL – Vicksburg, Miss. – Saint Aloysius – East Central Community College - @wcbigmac
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/FSN1yKaVx7
Cooper Dunnigan – 6-4 – 300 – OL – Dublin, Va. – Pulaski County – Palmetto Prep Academy - @cd6zero
Prior to Carson-Newman: Played one season at Palmetto Prep Academy in South Carolina
High School: Was an All-District and First Team All-Region offensive lineman at Pulaski County High School. Won Offensive Lineman of the Year his senior year with the Cougars. Was voted the team's offensive lineman of the year four years in a row by his teammates. Also played baseball for the Cougars.
Personal: Son of Cherish and Randy Dunnigan. Father Randy played football at West Virginia. Was on the All A and A/B Honor Roll all four years of high school. Chose C-N over Elon, UVA Wise, Newberry, and Wheeling College. Intends to major in computer science.
Commit #️⃣1️⃣3️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Cooper Dunnigan – 6-4 – 300 – OL – Dublin, Va. – Pulaski County – Palmetto Prep Academy - @cd6zero
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/T2qlRwDlHu
Nick Hart – 6-2 – 285 – OL - Lawrenceville, Ga. – Brookwood High – Palmetto Prep Academy - @nickhart50
High School: Allowed two sacks over his last two seasons. Helped lead the Broncos to an appearance in the 2020 7-A Playoffs. Member of the best offensive in Gwinnett County in 2020.
Prior to Carson-Newman: Played one season at Palmetto Prep Academy in Columbia, S.C. Named a 2020 Dream All-American for the Minutemen.
Personal: Son of Dean and Nikki Hart. Brother, Freddie, played collegiate football at Shorter University. Brother, MJ, played collegiate football at Lagrange. Cousin, Julian Ashby, plays collegiately for Furman football. Chose Carson-Newman over Marshall, Louisiana-Lafayette, and Presbyterian. Named to the Beta Club in high school. Intends to major in Sports Management at Carson-Newman.
Commit #️⃣1️⃣4️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Nick Hart – 6-2 – 285 – OL - Lawrenceville, Ga. – Brookwood High – Palmetto Prep Academy - @nickhart50
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/4dwfOe71kt
Zane Whitson – 6-3 -180 – QB – Kingsport, Tenn. – Dobyns Bennett – MTSU - @ @ZaneWhitson
PRIOR TO CARSON-NEWMAN: Did not appear in any games at MTSU.
HIGH SCHOOL: Was a four-year letterman in football and basketball at Dobyns Bennett High School, He earned 6A all-state honors twice while also being tabbed the 6A Region 1 MVP on two occasions. Was also a two-time Big East Conference Player of the Year. His TD to Interception Ratio was 40:3. Threw for 3,690 yards combined as a junior and senior. As a senior he threw for 1,783 yards, while rushing for 628 yards and nine touchdowns
PERSONAL: The son of Ron and Sonya Bennett. His dad is Trey Whitson.
Commit #️⃣1️⃣5️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Zane Whitson – 6-3 -180 – QB – Kingsport, Tenn. – Dobyns Bennett – MTSU - @ @ZaneWhitson
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/WMb5TyxxMB
Ja'Laun Walton – 6-0 – 200 – DB – Georgetown, S.C. – Carvers Bay - Erskine - @Juiceisland14
Prior to Carson-Newman: Played one spring season and the 2021 fall season at Erskine College in Due West, SC. Recorded the first interception in program history.
High School: Started at corner back for Carvers Bay for all four years of high school. Was named team captain his senior season.
Personal: Son of Nichelle Walton and Stanley Walton Jr. Graduated high school with a 3.7 GPA and was a member of the Beta Club, National Honors Society and Robotics Team. Chose C-N over South Carolina State, Mississippi Valley State, Newberry, and Shorter. Intends to major in Graphic Design.
Commit #️⃣1️⃣6️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Ja'Laun Walton – 6-0 – 200 – DB – Georgetown, SC – Carvers Bay - Erskine - @Juiceisland14
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/i1w4zKgxV6
Champ Baker – 5-10 – 170 – DB – Lilburn, Ga. – Parkview - @ChampBaker22
High School: Part of the Panthers football and track and field programs. In his final season for the Panthers, Baker amassed three interceptions, 43 solo tackles, 68 total tackles, and did not allow a single touchdown all season. Led the team to become three-time regional champions and two-time state runner-ups. Named an All-Country and All-Region football honoree, three-time football varsity letter winner, All-County, All-Region, and All-State in track, and four-time track varsity letter winner. Awarded the Panther Award at Parkview
Personal: Son of Gregory and Tameka Baker. Related to Leon Bright and Lawrence Dawsey, who played professionally for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Dusty Baker who played 19 seasons in the MLB and now coaches the Houston Astros, Kenny Jackson who played professionally for the Philadelphia Eagles, Tony Collins who played for the New England Patriots, Antonio Brown who has made various stops within the NFL, and Sam Madison who played for the Miami Dolphins and currently serves as the secondary/cornerbacks coach for the Kansas City Chiefs of the NFL. Chose Carson-Newman over Georgia Southern, Morehead State, Presbyterian, Wingate, UVA Wise, Lenoir-Rhyne, and Limestone. Placed on the A-B honor roll at Parkview, including being a three-year academic letter winner. Intends to study Business at Carson-Newman.
Commit #️⃣1️⃣7️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Champ Baker – 5-10 – 170 – DB – Lilburn, Ga. – Parkview - @ChampBaker22
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/TXO53F1W0Z
Gabe Nussman – 5-9 – 180 – LB – Waynesville, N.C. – Pisgah - @GabeNussman
High School: Only played in six games his senior year at linebacker for Pisgah High School but recorded 64 solo tackles, one sack, two pass breakups and three forced fumbles. Helped lead the Black Bears to the Mountain 6 Conference championship in 2020 and the Mountain 7 Conference championship in 2021. Was also a member of the Black Bear wrestling and track & field teams.
Personal: Son of Nan and Scott Nussman. Is a member of the National Honor Society. Chose C-N over Lenoir-Rhyne, UVA Wise, Catawba, and Maryville. Intends to major in exercise science.
Commit #️⃣1️⃣8️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Gabe Nussman – 5-9 – 180 – LB – Waynesville, N.C. – Pisgah - @GabeNussman
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/ys0AuCg3Jl
Zack Chalmers – 6-4 – 195 – WR – Newberry, S.C. – Newberry High - @ZackChalmers
High School: Member of the Bulldogs football, basketball, and track programs. Three-time All-State selection. All-Region honoree. Selected to the 2021 Shrine Bowl. Helped lead his time to an Upper State finish.
Personal: Son of Francine and Pervis Chalmers. Brother, Zay, plays for Newberry football. Recruited by various DI schools. Intends to major in Business at Carson-Newman.
Commit #️⃣1️⃣9️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Zack Chalmers – 6-4 – 195 – WR – Newberry, S.C. – Newberry High - @ZackChalmers
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/EOXafZk7kc
Isaac Bohleber – 6-0 – 205 – LB – Knoxville, Tenn. – West - @isaacbohleber
High School: Led the West High Rebels with 27.5 tackles and 10 sacks his senior season. Was named All-State and won the Region 2-5A OLB of the Year award in 2021. Helped lead his team to the 2021 Region 2-5A Championship. Was also a member of the West basketball and track & field teams.
Personal: Son of Sarah and Chris Bohleber. Uncle Dell Hawkins wrestled for Carson-Newman. Was named to the honor roll while at West. Chose C-N over Presbyterian, Tusculum, Wingate, Lindsey Wilson, Maryville and Bethel. Intends to major in Kinesiology.
Commit #️⃣2️⃣0️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Isaac Bohleber – 6-0 – 205 – LB – Knoxville, Tenn. – West - @isaacbohleber
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/Bkd81BBXq5
Nahiem Lilly – 5-10 – 190 – RB – Ramseur, N.C. – Eastern Randolph - @lillynaheim
High School: Finished his career as running back at Eastern Randolph High School with 5,700 yards. Scored 28 touchdowns his senior season and rushed for 1,700 yards, leading the Wildcats in rushing touchdowns and rushing yards. Also competed with the Eastern Randolph basketball and track teams.
Personal: Son of Lacresia Lilly and Jamar Cassidy. Finished the fall semester with a 3.1 GPA. Chose C-N over Tennessee, Kentucky, Navy, Coastal Carolina and Charleston Southern. Intends to major in business marketing.
Commit #️⃣2️⃣1️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Nahiem Lilly – 5-10 – 190 – RB – Ramseur, N.C. – Eastern Randolph - @LillyNaheim
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/u4iQYdDlEv
Mekhi Brown – 6-3 – 205 – LB – Wauchula, Fla. – Hardee - @_mekhiiii__
High School: Recorded 90 tackles, 13 tackles for loss and four sacks at linebacker at Hardee High School Helped lead the Wildcats to the district championship in 2018. Was named the FACA District 17 Player of the Year and FACA All-District 17 Team. Played in the FACA North-South All-Star game. Also played running back and defensive lineman at Hardee High School and was named Most Outstanding Defensive Player in 2020 and 2021 and Most Outstanding Running Back in 2021. Was also a member of the Wildcat basketball and track & field teams.
Personal: Son of Matrell Brown and Dione Graham. Chose C-N over Utah, Eastern Washington, Webber International and Muskingum. Intends to major in business
Commit #️⃣2️⃣2️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Mekhi Brown – 6-3 – 205 – LB – Wauchula, Fla. – Hardee - @_mekhiiii__
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/BW6m0T788Q
Don Dunning – 5-10 – 215 – RB – Nashville, Tenn. – Dickson County - @dondunning35
High School: In his four year career as a Cougar, Dunning amassed 2,230 total yards of offense and 40 TDs. Named an All-Region and All-County honoree. Named team captain during his senior season.
Personal: Son of Rae Dunning and Christie Chowbay. Chose Carson-Newman over Maryville, Birmingham-Southern, and Georgetown College. Intends to major in Sport Management at Carson-Newman.
Commit #️⃣2️⃣3️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Don Dunning – 5-10 – 215 – RB – Nashville, Tenn. – Dickson County - @dondunning35
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/gzI0wPJSB6
Austin Brackett – 6-1 – 205 – LB – Spring City, Tenn. – Rhea County - @austin_bracket
High School: Tallied 221 total tackles with a region-leading 122 his senior season at Rhea County. Helped lead the Golden Eagles to the 2020 and 2021 region championships. Was a two-time All-Region honoree and was named TSSAA 5A Region 4 linebacker of the year. Was also a member of the Golden Eagle basketball and baseball teams.
Personal: Son of Ashlee and Wiley Brackett. Chose C-N over Morehead State, UVA Wise, Emory & Henry, Maryville College and University of the Cumberlands. Intends to major in Business Administration.
Commit #️⃣2️⃣4️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Austin Brackett – 6-1 – 205 – LB – Spring City, Tenn. – Rhea County - @austin_bracket
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/7BkMx1r5eE
Fletcher Gibson – 6-3 – 295 – OL – Kingsport, Tenn. – West Ridge - @fletcherg03
High School: Recorded 35 pancakes and gave up zero sacks on 121 snaps played for first-year high school West Ridge. Was team captain for the Wolves en route to a 9-3 season and a second round game of the TSSAA 6A Playoffs. Earned All-Conference and All-State honors in 2020 and 2021. Earned the 2021 6A District I Offensive Lineman of the Year award. Was also a member of the Wolves Track & Field squad.
Personal: Son of Dawn and Gary Gibson. Comes from a football family. Grandfather Pat Carter was an All-American offensive lineman for ETSU. Uncle Ray Mendheim and his cousin Harris Mendheim played football at Georgia Tech. Great Uncle Ronnie Mendheim played football at ETSU was the MVP of the 1969 Grantland-Rice Bowl against Louisiana Tech. Chose Carson-Newman over Coastal Carolina, MTSU, ETSU, UVA Wise, Tusculum, University of the Cumberlands and Maryville College. A member of the National Honors Society. Intends to major in secondary education.
Commit #️⃣2️⃣5️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Fletcher Gibson – 6-3 – 295 – OL – Kingsport, Tenn. – West Ridge - @fletcherg03
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/VLlBSJ8UlZ
Nicholas Jefferson – 5-9 – 164 – WR – Port Saint Joe, Fla. – Port Saint Joe – @Nickk5_
High School: A two year starter at wide receiver for Port Saint Joe High School, recording 1,420 total yards and 18 touchdowns for the Tiger Sharks. Was named captain of the football team two years in a row. Earned First-Team All-Area and First-Team All-State honors in 2020 and 2021. Also played on the baseball and basketball teams and was a competitive weightlifter for Port Saint Joe High School.
Personal: Son of Sharee Cobbs and Joe Jefferson. Cousin Calvin Pryor played football at University of Louisville and was drafted by the New York Jets in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft. Chose Carson-Newman over Nicholas University and Florida Memorial. Earned A-B honor roll for three straight years in high school. Intends to major in biology.
Commit #️⃣2️⃣6️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Nicholas Jefferson – 5-9 – 164 – WR – Port Saint Joe, Fla. – Port Saint Joe – @Nickk5_
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/8w4y6vgNUH
Brooks Crowder – 5-11 – 160 – WR – Knoxville, Tenn. – Seymour - @CrowderBrooks
High School: Member of the Seymour track and football programs. Led the Eagles with 17 pass blocks and amassed almost 1,000 all-purpose yards. Named All-Region 1-4A, All-Sevier County and First team for 2022. Garnered defensive back of the year and team captain laurels in 2022.
Personal: Son of Anna and Brian Crowder. Chose Carson-Newman over UVA Wise, Maryville, and Tusculum. Member of the Seymour Beta Club. Intends to study Exercise Science at Carson-Newman.
Commit #️⃣2️⃣7️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Brooks Crowder – 5-11 – 160 – WR – Knoxville, Tenn. – Seymour - @CrowderBrooks
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/UfgbTPMsId
Jarrett McLemore – 6-0 - 245 – OL – Maryville, Tenn. – Heritage - @JarrettMclemore
HIGH SCHOOL: McLemore tallied two letters for Tim Hammontree at Heritage High School.
PERSONAL: The son of Chris and Mandy McLemore, he intends to study graphic design at Carson-Newman.
Commit #️⃣2️⃣8️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Jarrett McLemore – 6-0 - 245 – OL – Maryville, Tenn. – Heritage - @JarrettMclemore
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/Uk0irWMlqN
Sedrick Oneal – 6-3 – 238 – LB – Atlanta, Ga. – Maynard Jackson - @Sederickoneal
High School: Played various sports for the Maynard Jackson Jaguars.
Personal: Son of April O'Neal and Sedrick Reeves. Relative, Romeo Langford, plays professionally for the Boston Celtics in the NBA. Intends to major in Social Work at Carson-Newman.
Commit #️⃣2️⃣9️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Sedrick Oneal – 6-3 – 238 – LB – Atlanta, Ga. – Maynard Jackson - @Sederickoneal
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/X52m0HNj58
Skyyler Kibler – 6-6 – 235 – TE – Lenoir City, Tenn. – Roane County - @SkyylerKibler
High School: Dual sport athlete for the Yellow Jackets, competing on the football and track teams. Named one of the top tight ends in the state of Tennessee. Compiled 52 pancake blocks in his career.
Personal: Son of Stacy Kibler. Chose Carson-Newman over Carthage College, Bethany, and McPherson. Honors student, taking AP and dual-enrollment courses. Intends to major in Pre-Medicine at Carson-Newman.
Commit #️⃣3️⃣0️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Skyyler Kibler – 6-6 – 235 – TE – Lenoir City, Tenn. – Roane County - @SkyylerKibler
�� https://t.co/Fc64Xhy4n7#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/4E8DLIWySt
Solomon Dade – 6-2 – 270 – DL – Pompano Beach, Fla. – Stranahan - @Solomondade1
High School: Tri-sport athlete for the Dragons, competing on the football, wrestling , and track and field programs. Ranked at the sixth player in the state of FL and 16th nationally for sacks. Three-year varsity starter and six-time player of the game honoree. Helped guide the Dragons to a second-round playoff appearance and to be named district runner-up.
Personal: Son of Dahlene Razz. Chose Carson-Newman over UCF, McPherson, and Valpariso State. Named to the Stranahan National Honors Society. Intends to major in Exercise Science at Carson-Newman.
Commit #️⃣3️⃣1️⃣
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) February 2, 2022
Solomon Dade – 6-2 – 270 – DL – Pompano Beach, Fla. – Stranahan - @solomondade1
�� https://t.co/Fc64XhyCcF#CNNSD22 #FlightCla22 | #TalonsUp x @cnfootball pic.twitter.com/l2ggm5C9DF
