Tennessee offensive lineman David Sanders Jr. is making waves after a practice video posted on Thursday caught the eyes of fans and analysts alike. The clip, shared by GoVols247’s Patrick Brown, showcases Sanders in a one-on-one drill on the Vols’ outdoor field. While the footage has sparked admiration for Sanders' raw power and dominance, it's also drawn some critical feedback.
Former Kansas City Chiefs offensive lineman and Super Bowl champion Mitchell Schwartz weighed in with a critical take. Schwartz pointed out that Sanders struggled with movement after contact and suggested that such reps might lead to penalties in a game situation. His comment stirred up a debate about the merits of the play.
Despite the mixed reactions, Tennessee fans are buzzing with excitement about Sanders, who is entering his second year. Pro Football Focus College even chimed in, calling it a “grown man rep.”
Beyond the practice field, Sanders is a key player for Tennessee as they gear up for the upcoming season under coach Josh Heupel. The former five-star recruit overcame injuries last season to make his debut against Mississippi State, and he quickly seized his chance. Sanders earned significant playing time, eventually starting at right tackle against Kentucky and holding onto the spot for the rest of the season.
Statistically, Sanders played 425 snaps and earned a solid 67.2 overall grade from PFF. His pass blocking was particularly strong, with a 73.6 mark, and he was penalized only twice throughout the season.
His performance didn’t go unnoticed. ESPN’s Billy Tucker ranked him as the 24th-best freshman, and he was named to several All-Freshman teams, including those by On3, 247Sports, and the SEC Coaches.
As Tennessee faces some uncertainty at the quarterback position, having Sanders as a reliable presence on the offensive line provides a measure of stability. He’s poised to be a breakout star for the Vols and a crucial protector for whoever lines up under center.