Five Returning Players Who Can Increase Their Role for Tennessee this Spring

Five Returning Players Who Can Increase Their Role for Tennessee this Spring

Josh Heupel's first spring practice as Tennessee's Head Coach will commence next Tuesday. With over two dozen former players entering the transfer portal this off-season, new faces are set to emerge, and competition should be at a premium. VR2 on SI takes a look at five returning players who could make an impact this spring as Tennessee hits reset and starts to install new schemes under a new coaching staff. 

Morven Joseph

The Lake Gibson (Fla.) prospect is easily the most versatile linebacker on Tennessee's roster. He can play all of the positions, which should easily allow him to make his presence felt this spring. Tennessee is thin at the linebacker position, which also helps Joseph's case, as he should see work in every package Tennessee starts to install this spring. Joseph flashed his potential last fall at times in situational roles, but this spring feels like his chance to begin the process of becoming an impact player for Tennessee. Joseph's versatility could make him one of the most important players on Tennessee's defense moving forward. 

Omari Thomas

Tennessee has a defensive line unit laden with veteran bodies. The unit has been widely criticized for its production or lack thereof for the last couple of seasons. Guys like Aubrey Solomon, Jay Blakely, Darrel Middelton, and Matthew Butler are back for their last ride, but Omari Thomas came to Tennessee to be an early impact player, and this fall could be a springboard for him. It will be the first real look at the defensive line for guru Rodney Garner, and we expect Thomas to move his way up the rotation quickly. Thomas played in all ten games for Tennessee last fall, and he came on strong late. He will be one to watch this spring, as Tennessee is in need of a dominant big man upfront. 

Javontez Spraggins

Spraggins flashed his potential at times last fall, but he was not able to always sustain consistently. Tennessee is tasked with replacing All-American Trey Smith, who has been a fixture on the offensive line since arriving in Knoxville. Spraggins saw action in eight games right fall and worked at right guard most of the time, but he can easily flex to the left side and be a mauler. Spraggins is known for his aggressive, bulldog style of play, which is what helped Smith make his name on Rocky Top. Spraggins should see opportunities early and often on Glen Elarbee's unit.

Roman Harrison

Harrison is a unique pass-rusher because of his ability to bend off the edge and never lose his explosiveness. Tennessee's pass-rush was average at best last fall, but Harrison is the guy who can take it to the next level. Harrison battled nagging injuries last fall, but he still produced with his opportunities. He produced two sacks, and if he is healthy this spring, he should see an increase in his role under Tim Banks. 

Tamarion McDonald

McDonald was expected to redshirt last fall before the NCAA gave blanket eligibility to all athletes. He returned from shoulder surgery and came on strong. He made one start down the stretch, producing the most in run support, but flashing his potential as a ballhawk at times. Tennessee's secondary will utilize multiple looks with 4, 5 and 6 defensive backs at a time, making it even more likely for McDonald to see an increase in opportunity. Doneiko Slaughter will be another factor in the back end of Tennessee's defense. Slaughter is a familiar face for Willie Martinez and his versatility should help him make a move alongside McDonald.