Joe Milton III Attends Draft Party

Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Joe Milton III was front and center for the NFL Draft, sitting right next to his former teammate Hendon Hooker.

Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel has emphasized comradery above all. He wants to instill a love for football in these players, but he has repeatedly stated that he expects players to work hard for each other. That mindset forms deep bonds between individuals in the heat of competition, as evidenced by the friendship between quarterbacks Hendon Hooker and Joe Milton III.

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— no context college football (@nocontextcfb) April 28, 2023

When Heupel initially arrived on Rocky Top, he appointed Milton as his starting quarterback. The Michigan transfer has a lot of physical tools that open up your offense; while Hooker isn't limited size-wise, he doesn't resemble Milton. However, when games began it became apparent that Hooker was the right man for the job.

Hooker seized the opportunity and didn't look back. He had a decorated two years with the Vols before declaring for the 2023 NFL Draft. Hooker hosted a draft party and had his former teammate sitting right next to him. It speaks volumes that on the most important day of Hooker's life, Milton was sitting right next to him.

As both have parted ways, it seems everything worked out for each party. Milton is the unquestioned starting quarterback this season and put together an impressive performance in the Orange Bowl while Hooker will likely be a day two NFL Draft pick. There was speculation that he could go in the first round, but no team called his name on Thursday night.

How To Watch: NFL Draft

Gameday: Friday, April 28th, 2023.
Game time: 8:00 pm ET
TV: ESPN/NFL Network/ABC
Stadium: Union Station Kansas City (Kansas City, Missouri)
Live stream on fuboTV: Start with a 7-day free trial!

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