SEC coaches discuss merits of early signing period

He believes it would give programs in Texas, California and Florida -- states that produce the most football talent -- an advantage since they have more access to some of the best players year-round.

"I'm not sure it would benefit schools like Tennessee because our recruiting base is not necessarily the best," he said. "On the other hand, it might eliminate some wasted time for us. I want to know all the ramifications. I'm kind of on the fence. I want to see where we are with it."

Brooks and Johnson already knew where they stood.

"I have been in favor of an early signing period, and most of my brethren in this conference are not," Brooks said. "Maybe they figure they can come in and pick people from us lesser-known schools, I'm not sure. It's worked well for basketball. I don't see any reason it shouldn't work for football."

Some coaches said one concern would be signing someone early who might not have taken the SAT or ACT and may not be able to qualify for enrollment. But Johnson said that already happens with some recruits. He said the real reason some coaches don't want the early signing period is because "everybody thinks they can have a chance to sway somebody."

"I think it would take a lot of pressure off of everybody," Johnson added. "If (a recruit) hasn't made up his mind, don't sign. If he has, then sign. It's pretty logical to me."