Interview: 4-Star 2021 Tennessee OT Eli Sutton Updates College Camps and Visits
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
The college football universe has gone crazy for Eli Sutton, and for good reason; the Class of 2021 offensive lineman has bookend left tackle collegiate All-Conference upside. The 6-7, 278-pound, lineman had a standout sophomore season with Brentwood Academy quickly earning four-star status and the label as one of Tennessee’s top high school football players. Next level coaches have responded in kind with 20 total offers being extended to date.
In an RNG catch-up interview, I got a few minutes with Sutton going over his college camp circuit, recruiting visits, and summer workouts.
*Click link for April 9, 2019, RNG interview with Eli Sutton
Interview
Eli, how have the offseason workouts gone for you and the team?
“We start at 6:30 and are done around 9:30 to 10 o’clock. We are installing plays and getting better. I am ready to get back on the field with my guys this season.”
Which areas of your technique have you been the main focus for you this summer?
“My main focus has been my flexibility in my hips and my pad level – keeping that consistently low.”
Where are you seeing the biggest improvements?
“I feel more comfortable in my stance. Last year, run blocking out of two-point stance was different for me.”
Did you compete at any college camps this summer?
“Yes, sir. I went to camps at Notre Dame and Wisconsin.”
How was the Notre Dame performance?
“It went well. It rained for the first two hours, but it went well. I had a good time. It was a great experience working with the Notre Dame coaching staff.”
And the Wisconsin camp, how did that go?
“It went well. That was a big camp as well. Working with that staff was interesting. I stayed the night in Madison. We went out and saw the town. That was great as well.”
What were some of the things you learned from the college coaches that will help you this season?
“I learned more about my pass set; I am too patient. I learned how to better use my hands, strength and size to my advantage.”
How many total offers do you have now?
“I have 20 offers.”
Nice. Which schools are showing interest?
“Virginia, South Carolina, Miami, Michigan, Northwestern, LSU and Auburn are showing interest.”
Other than the camps attended, have you visited any schools since we last spoke?
“Yes. I went up to Vanderbilt in June to walk around the campus.”
Do you have any planned visits ahead even on into the fall?
“There are some in the works, but nothing set down. I plan on going to a couple of game visits to Virginia, Miami, and I might go to the (Alabama vs. Auburn) Iron Bowl (Auburn) as well.”
What goals have you set for your junior campaign?
“My goal is to win a state title – five-straight. I do not care about anything else but winning.”
Eli, it was great catching up with you today. I appreciate your time and wish you continued success with your offseason program.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Sutton family; Eli Sutton