Wide receiver Amari Rodgers commits to Clemson

On Valentine’s Day, wide receiver Amari Rodgers of Knoxville, Tenn., showed his love for Clemson by announcing a commitment to the Tigers.

The Class of 2017 talent chose Clemson over Tennessee, Florida State, Wake Forest and Alabama.

Rodgers (5-10, 180) once was a Southern Cal commitment. His father, former Tennessee quarterback Tee Martin, is an assistant coach with the Trojans.

Rodgers announced his decision from his home via Periscope. In talking about his decision afterward, Rodgers said Clemson had been his favorite school since youth. When the Tigers offered a few months ago, he knew then that was where he wanted to go to school.

“Just going on visits, every time I’m there it feels like home,” Rodgers said. “It’s just something about Clemson. It’s in my heart. That’s where I’ve wanted to go and where I’ve wanted to be. I’ve been in love with Clemson since middle school. This is a blessing. I’ve always loved Clemson. Coach Swinney is a player’s coach and he’s always there for you, and that’s the kind of coach I want to play for.”

Rodgers attended Clemson’s junior day in January. With the Tigers losing Mike Williams, Germone Hopper and possibly Artavis Scott after next season, they showed him where there will be room for early playing time.

“I’ll be playing the 2-man position and they are saying Artavis Scott is supposed to be leaving after next season if he has a good year and that’s where I’ll be playing,” Rodgers said. “I’m going to have to compete, but competing will make me better.”

Last season Rodgers was one of the Mr. Football Award winners in Tennessee. He accounted for 2,511 all-purpose yards and 31 touchdowns.

“I’m smart and I learn the playbook fast,” he said. “I’m getting my speed up by running track and I’m working hard to high point the ball, go up in the air and attack the ball.”