Three Key Tennessee Vols Storylines to Watch This Week
It’s shaping up to be a pivotal week across Tennessee athletics, with major developments on the football front, a critical bounce-back opportunity for the basketball team, and some intriguing twists in the recruiting world. Here’s a closer look at the three biggest storylines Vols fans should keep their eyes on as the week unfolds.
1. NFL Draft Decisions Rolling In
The offseason is already heating up for Tennessee football, and the NFL Draft declarations are starting to paint a clearer picture of what the 2026 roster might look like. So far, three key contributors-cornerback Jermod McCoy, wide receiver Chris Brazell II, and linebacker Arion Carter-have officially declared for the NFL Draft.
All three played significant roles this past season, and their departures will leave noticeable gaps on both sides of the ball. McCoy brought lockdown ability to the secondary, Brazell was a dynamic presence in the passing game, and Carter’s versatility at linebacker made him one of the defense’s most reliable playmakers.
But the announcements may not be over just yet.
Third-year corner Colton Hood is generating serious buzz in early mock drafts, with some projecting him as a potential first-round pick. He hasn’t made a decision public yet, but whether he chooses to go pro or return for another year in Knoxville could have a ripple effect on the Vols’ defensive plans moving forward. Either way, expect more clarity-and possibly more declarations-to come this week.
2. Can the Vols Basketball Team Snap the Skid?
After a tough three-game losing streak, Tennessee basketball is facing a high-stakes matchup Tuesday night against Louisville at the Food City Center. It’s a game that could either stop the bleeding or deepen the rut, and the Vols know what’s at stake.
The team has had a full week off to regroup, reset, and address the issues that have plagued them-particularly on the offensive end and in late-game execution. And there’s already a sign that head coach Rick Barnes is ready to shake things up. He’s announced plans for a lineup change ahead of the Louisville game, signaling a willingness to adjust and spark something new.
Oddsmakers currently have Tennessee as a slight underdog at +1.5, which tells you everything you need to know about how closely matched this game is expected to be. Louisville brings size, athleticism, and momentum into the matchup, but Tennessee has the home-court advantage and a sense of urgency.
This isn’t just about snapping a losing streak-it’s about reestablishing identity and confidence. A win on Tuesday night could be a turning point in the season.
3. Recruiting Watch: Is There Movement with Savion Hiter?
Recruiting never sleeps, and this week could bring some intriguing developments for Tennessee fans. One name to keep an eye on is Savion Hiter, the five-star running back who signed with Michigan but was heavily recruited by the Vols throughout the year.
With coaching changes swirling around Michigan-particularly involving Sherrone Moore-there’s speculation that Hiter could reconsider his commitment. While nothing is confirmed, this is exactly the kind of late-cycle drama that can reshape a recruiting class in a hurry.
Tennessee has been aggressive in building out its future backfield, and if Hiter becomes available again, expect the Vols to be right back in the mix. It’s a situation worth monitoring closely, especially with the early signing period approaching.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s draft decisions that shape the roster, a must-win basketball game that could shift momentum, or recruiting dominoes that start to fall, this week has plenty riding on it for Tennessee athletics. Vols fans should buckle up-there’s a lot to watch, and even more potentially on the way.