In terms of the current team, it continues to about getting bigger, faster and stronger. Several Vols have earned some praise for their work since the start of the spring semester including freshmen Wanya Morris and Jaylen McCullough. Redshirts Cedric Tillman, Cheyenne Labruza and Ollie Lane have been singled out for their work ethic as well.
Both Marcus Tatum and Jamir Johnson updated their size on social media. Johnson is on the cusp of 300 pounds, which has been a huge goal after playing last year closer to 250 than 300. Tatum weighed over 300 pounds last season, but now he’s up to 312 pounds which is the heaviest he’s ever been. With the signing of what most believe is the best OL class in the country, the competition on the offensive line should be better starting this spring. With Chance Hall’s career offer, Drew Richmond transferring, and Trey Smith’s career on hold, opportunity is there for anyone in the offensive trenches.
In terms of getting faster, linebacker Daniel Bituli ran a sub-4.7/40 10 days or so ago. Bituli’s time is note worthy. Heralded Dallas Cowboy rookie middle linebacker
Leighton Vander Eschran a 4.65 a year ago at the combine.
Speaking of linebackers, the question is where will Jeremy Banks play this spring? Pruitt has been non-committal about it to this point. Given the running back group features Ty Chandler, who is definitely bigger, Tim Jordan, and Eric Gray coming off of shoulder surgery, it sounds like Banks is likely to remain at running back at this time, per talking to multiple folks.