Tennessee football is heading into a pivotal spring in 2026-a crossroads moment, really. After the high of reaching the College Football Playoff in 2024, last season’s step back has left a hungry fanbase looking for answers.
Josh Heupel’s program isn’t in crisis mode, but expectations are high, and patience isn’t infinite. That makes this spring practice more than just a tune-up-it’s a proving ground.
There are questions across the board, but three storylines stand out as particularly crucial heading into spring ball. Let’s break them down.
1. How quickly can Jim Knowles’ defense take hold?
The addition of Jim Knowles as defensive coordinator turned heads for a reason-his track record speaks for itself. But Knowles doesn’t run a plug-and-play system.
His defenses are layered, aggressive, and built on detailed reads that require time to master. That’s why the biggest question isn’t whether Knowles can elevate Tennessee’s defense-it’s how fast that transformation can happen.
This spring will be our first real look at that process. The Vols are working in a hefty number of new starters on that side of the ball, and that’s no small task when you’re also installing a complex scheme.
But there’s talent to work with. Up front, Tennessee added two promising young linemen in Chaz Coleman and Xavier Gilliam-both players with the kind of upside that could make them foundational pieces in the trenches.
The secondary has been completely overhauled, with transfers coming in from Miami, Michigan, Penn State, Kansas State, and Auburn. That’s a lot of new faces, and while the influx of experience is a plus, cohesion is going to take time. Spring ball is where the early chemistry starts to build, and how quickly this group gels under Knowles will be a major indicator of what this defense can become.
2. Who emerges as WR3?
The top of the receiver room is set, and it’s a strong duo. Braylon Staley, the reigning SEC Freshman of the Year, looks like a future star, and Mike Matthews brings the kind of veteran presence that every offense needs.
But after those two? It’s wide open.
That WR3 spot is up for grabs, and it’s one of the more intriguing position battles heading into spring. Tristen Keys, the No. 1 wideout in the 2026 recruiting class, is dripping with potential.
He’s got the tools, but can he translate that into production right away? Freshmen can flash in spring, but doing it consistently is another story.
Radarious Jackson showed some promise last season, hauling in 9 catches for 90 yards. Not eye-popping numbers, but enough to put him firmly in the mix. Joakim Dodson also saw some action last fall, and he’ll be looking to build on that experience.
This spring is all about separation-literally and figuratively. Who can create space on the field?
Who can earn the trust of the quarterbacks? The WR3 role may not grab headlines now, but come fall, that third option could be a difference-maker in close SEC matchups.
3. Who’s ready to lead at quarterback?
With Joey Aguilar’s status still up in the air as he petitions for another season, Tennessee has to prepare as if he won’t be back. That puts the spotlight squarely on two names: George MacIntyre and Faizon Brandon.
MacIntyre saw limited action as a freshman last fall, but even in garbage-time snaps, he looked composed. There’s a calmness to his game that’s hard to teach, and now, he’s got a full offseason to take the next step.
Enter Faizon Brandon, the five-star freshman who just arrived on campus. He brings a different dynamic-athleticism, arm talent, and the kind of raw ability that makes coaches and fans alike sit up and take notice. But raw talent doesn’t always equal readiness, and that’s what this spring will help determine.
This quarterback battle isn’t just about who looks better in 7-on-7s or who throws the prettiest deep ball. It’s about command-of the offense, of the huddle, and of the moment. Spring practices will offer the first real glimpse at who’s ready to take that mantle.
Big Picture
Tennessee’s spring isn’t about filling out a depth chart-it’s about setting a tone. There’s no shortage of talent on this roster, but with a new defensive system, key offensive roles up for grabs, and a looming quarterback decision, the next few months will go a long way in shaping what this team becomes in 2026.
The Vols aren’t rebuilding-they’re reloading. But if they want to get back to the College Football Playoff conversation, it starts with answering these questions now.