As Tennessee football gears up for spring practice, the Vols are setting the stage for some intense position battles. It's a pivotal time for players to showcase their skills and cement their roles as they prepare for the 2026 season. Let's dive into some key players who need to make a splash this spring.
Safety - Edrees Farooq
Edrees Farooq, a returning starter at safety, flashed potential last season but also had moments he'd likely want to redo. With Jim Knowles stepping in as the new defensive coordinator, Farooq faces the challenge of impressing both Knowles and co-defensive coordinator Anthony Poindexter. The competition is heating up with new safeties added to the roster, so Farooq will need to hit the ground running to secure his spot.
Tight End - DaSaahn Brame
DaSaahn Brame found himself as the fourth option at tight end last season, often lining up as a slot receiver. With Miles Kitselman graduating and Jack Van Dorselaer transferring to Oklahoma, Brame now finds himself in a prime position to step up as the second-string tight end behind Ethan Davis. The spring session is crucial for Brame to prove he's ready for a bigger role.
Defensive Ends - Tyree Weathersby/Mariyon Dye
The defensive line is undergoing a transformation, and at defensive end, Tyree Weathersby and Mariyon Dye are expected to step up. Weathersby, who battled through injuries last year, is now healthy and ready to compete for more playing time.
Meanwhile, Dye, coming off his freshman year, is poised for a significant leap. Both players have the opportunity to become key contributors.
Running Back - Daune Morris
Daune Morris, a rising sophomore, is looking to solidify his role behind lead-back DeSean Bishop. With Tulane transfer Javin Gordon also in the mix, Morris has the chance to carve out a spot as the second-string running back. If he can make the strides the staff is hoping for, Morris could become a vital player, both in the backfield and on special teams.
Wide Receivers - Radarious Jackson/Travis Smith Jr.
With Braylon Staley and Mike Matthews locking down two receiver spots, the competition for the remaining outside role is fierce. Radarious Jackson, Travis Smith Jr., and newcomer TK Keys are all vying for the position. Even if Keys lives up to his five-star potential, having Jackson or Smith step up would provide valuable depth and flexibility for the Vols' offense.
As spring practice kicks off, all eyes will be on these players to see who rises to the occasion and seizes their opportunity. It's a critical time for Tennessee to assess their roster and prepare for the challenges ahead.