Making the Case: Which 2021 Defensive Signee Makes the Quickest Impact?

The Josh Heupel era is underway at Tennessee. He benefits from having a solid 2021 recruiting class coming in with multiple early enrollees already on campus. With defensive coordinator Tim Banks now in place, the VR2 on SI staff takes a look at which 2021 signee they believe will make the quickest impact for the new look Volunteers on the defensive side of the ball. 

Brandon

Aaron Willis looks to be a player with the tools to start Day One on film. He is a sideline-to-sideline tackling machine, and he arrives with authority. Willis is an excellent wrap up tackler, but he hits ball carriers with bad intentions. Willis has the ability to work in coverage and an extremely high football IQ. The combination of talent and opportunity means that Willis should step right into a major role in the Volunteer defense.

Dale

De'Shawn Rucker comes in listed as a Safety but has the ability to play all over the defensive backfield. Speed and versatility may be what gets him on the field to make an impact early. The speed that Rucker has also begs the question of if he will see time on special teams as well, which adds to his value. Tennessee can use Rucker in various roles, walked down in the box, playing in the slot, or manning center field. He is a gadget-type DB with high-end potential. 

Matt

Tennessee lost De'Andre Johnson to the transfer portal and Kivon Bennett to off-field issues in 2020. This is a hit to production, but the Vols still have playmakers on the edge, regardless of if they can coax Dylan Brooks into staying, who was believed to be an immediate answer on the edge. However, Byron Young possesses the traits to be an immediate presence for Tennessee. He shows three down ability, and he could become a pass-rushing presence. He has a previous relationship with Rodney Garner, which should help facilitate his transition into Tennessee's new defense, which is expected to be ultra-aggressive, giving him even more of an opportunity to make his presence felt. 

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