(PrepXtra.com, Jesse Smithey) -- Catholic High School senior defensive back Nick Branum decided Tuesday to walk on at Tennessee with hopes of earning a scholarship down the road.

The 6-foot, 185-pound Branum, who's been clocked as low as 4.37 seconds in the 40, had similar opportunities at Alabama and Mississippi State.

"I just loved the coaches (at Tennessee)," said Branum, who met three times during the past two weeks with members of UT's staff.

Branum made 35 tackles last season and three interceptions. He made a pick in the Class 3A state championship and returned it 56 yards. He also had a 55-yard touchdown reception in the win.