Top247 receiver Mazeo Bennett committed to Tennessee in mid October, but he had a change of heart and is back on the market.
The class of 2024 prospect from Greenville (S.C.) High decommitted from Tennessee on Thursday. He has kept close tabs on South Carolina’s season and class throughout his recruitment.
5-foot-11, 175-pound Bennett is the No. 31 receiver and No. 3 player in South Carolina in the industry-generated 247Sports Composite.
“Man, first I would like to say thank you to the entire staff at the University of Tennessee,” he wrote in announcing his decision. “Thank you for taking me in and believing in me. Thank you to the fan base for all of the love shown to me.
“With the recent changes in the coaching staff, me and my family have decided to take a step back and re-evaluate Tennessee and others. Tennessee will still be one of my top schools.
“Hurts my heart to say this but I will be decommitting from the University of Tennessee and reopening my recruitment.”
As a junior, Bennett made 47 catches for 857 yards and 14 touchdowns in 14 games. He also ran 20 times for 221 yards and seven touchdowns.
When he committed to Tennessee, his offer list also consisted of Florida State, Alabama, Oregon, North Carolina, Georgia, South Carolina and Miami.
Scouting report from Bennett’s 247Sports profile: Verified size with with plus length. Has quickness to play in slot but can also line up wide. Productive high school play impacts game in all three phases. Natural pass catcher with above average ball skills and ability to high point passes. Excellent body control allows to adjust to off target passes and make play. Gets clean release off line of scrimmage and into route well. Has strong field presence. Understands how to set up defensive back. Reliable pass catcher tracks ball well. Unselfish team player with big-play ability. Makes yards after catch by securing pass quickly and getting up the field. Can make spectacular plays look routine. Can be physical at top of routes. Shows that aspect as defensive back as well. Willing blocker who puts in work and sees value in that aspect of game. Has speed to get behind defense but not true burner. Needs to continue to add strength in upper body to deal with college cornerbacks on press coverage. Has to continue to work on accelerating out of breaks. Power 5 starter with ability to develop into NFL receiver.