When it came to recruiting for the class of 2027, the ball really got rolling starting in the month of June. The lone linebacker commitment for the Blue Raiders is Peach State product Joshua Echols, who plays for perennial powerhouse, Buford High. Back in June, GoMiddle broke the story, covering his commitment.
Echols is a versatile, rangy linebacker who measures in over six-feet-tall and a weight hovering around the 210 pound mark.
For this edition of the coaching corner, we caught up with the co-defensive coordinator at Buford, JJ Chatmon. He has extensive coaching experience. He coached running backs at Carson Newman for two seasons. He has three years of experience coaching running backs in high school, and defensive line and linebackers for 15 years at the high school level.
Right off the bat, Chatmon indicated that he knew Echols was a division-one caliber football player early on.
“The first time I meet Joshua, I knew,” Chatmon said.
Chatmon said that what stood about Echols was his passion for football, but also the preparation aspect.
“I could tell by his love for the game and in the weight room.”
Chatmon elaborated on the mental aspect of things with Echols.
“He studies film and knows what is coming before the play is ran,” Chatmon said.
When it comes to the nuts and bolts of Echols’ game, Chatmon said: “He is a violent linebacker, that makes plays all over the field. His speed along with his knowledge of the game helps him make plays all over the field. Joshua’s big play ability and character brings excitement to the team every week.”
Chatmon mentioned that Echols is certainly a leader for the Buford program.
“Joshua also loves to encourage the young players in our program, which makes them want to go harder at whatever we are doing.”
The Buford co-defensive coordinator said that he has high expectations for his pupil in 2026.
“I expect Joshua to have a great senior year, filled with great stats, and the leadership that comes along with being a senior on this team,” he said.
Chatmon said that even when he puts Echols’ game under the microscope, it is hard for him to pinpoint weaknesses and vulnerabilities.
“Joshua really does not have an area of weakness as far as football goes. That makes it hard for me to choose an area of improvement.”
Chatmon said that Echols will blend right in the MTSU locker room and that his teammates will feed off of his passion for the game of football.
“I think Joshua will fit in good in Murfreesboro,” he said.
“I think his love for the game will help players and coaches love him.”
Chatmon circled back around to the preparation side of things when it comes to Echols.
“He also never lacks in the effort department,” he said.
“He believes in family, team first.”
He indicated that one thing that contributed to Echols ending up in Murfreesboro was the environment around the program.
“Joshua loves a family atmosphere,” Chatmon said.
Echols and the Buford program will open up week one on ESPN 2 against Gainesville High School.