(Josh Ward, GoVolsXtra.com) -- Defensive tackle Anthony Johnson from O. Perry Walker High School in New Orleans committed to Tennessee on Friday as work has already started for the 2011 signing class.

The 6-foot-4, 296-pound Johnson made the commitment largely due to the recruitment of defensive line coach and recruiting coordinator Ed Orgeron.

“As you look at his coaching career, he’s coached some of the best,” Johnson said of Orgeron. “He’s like a father to me. He just pulled me in and he treats me like I’m one of his own.”

Johnson was already familiar with Orgeron because of his ties to Louisiana and his work as the New Orleans Saints defensive line coach in 2008.

Johnson had to listen when Orgeron called.

“When I heard Coach Orgeron was recruiting me, I was like, ‘Wow, man,’ ” Johnson said. “He’s one of the best defensive line coaches in the nation.

“His repertoire is just incredible. It was a great feeling to hear that I was being recruited by Coach Orgeron.”

Johnson also asked Orgeron what it will be like to move from Louisiana to Tennessee.

“He told me it’s a great experience,” Johnson said. “I can experience new things.”

Johnson will see a familiar face when he gets to UT.

Wide receivers coach Frank Wilson was the coach at O. Perry Walker from 2002-04.

Johnson said Wilson’s presence helped influence his commitment.

“I’ve been knowing Coach Frank my whole life,” Johnson said. “He’s just a great person.

“Coming from where I’m coming from and seeing somebody that’s where I’m from do big things, it shows I can be the best person I can be.”

UT hopes Johnson can do big things along its defensive line.

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