More than three weeks remain until Tennessee's Sept. 1 season opener against West Virginia in Charlotte, N.C. Through three preseason practices, here is a glimpse at 10 Volunteers players who are cementing their roles.
1. Trey Smith, sophomore offensive lineman
The most likely future NFL first-round draft pick on Tennessee's roster, Smith has the potential to be a first-team All-SEC offensive lineman this season and could become an emotional leader for the Vols in just his second season. But after an offseason health issue, the mere fact that Smith will be in uniform is a major relief for Tennessee. He is still about two weeks away from returning to full contact.
2. Jauan Jennings, redshirt junior wide receiver
Jennings would have been the primary receiving target in the offense last season and likely would have improved upon the 40 catches he made as a sophomore. Instead, he was injured Now, he's back and grateful for a fresh start after he was kicked off the team before coach Jeremy Pruitt's arrival. Jennings could have the type of redshirt junior season that makes him a viable 2019 NFL draft candidate.
3. Ty Chandler, sophomore running back
Chandler could be poised for a breakout season in first-year offensive coordinator Tyson Helton's scheme. Exactly how the speedster will be used remains to be seen, but the Vols coaches almost assuredly will find ways to make him a weapon on offense and possibly on special teams as well.
4. Kyle Phillips, senior defensive end
Phillips quietly pieced together a solid junior season despite starting it as a backup to Jonathan Kongbo and Darrell Taylor at defensive end. With both those players moved to "jack" linebacker in a new defense, Phillips will shine even brighter as he disrupts opponents from his spot on the line. His veteran leadership makes him an invaluable part of the defense.
5. Daniel Bituli, junior linebacker
Last year's leading Tennessee tackler is poised for an even bigger season. Bituli possesses the strength and speed to be a difference maker in the middle of the defense. He is also becoming more vocal.
6. Marquez Callaway, junior receiver
Callaway showed flashes of brilliance as a sophomore - Tennessee would likely have lost its 2017 season opener without a couple of his aerial grabs - but needs to ramp up the consistency in 2018. If a new coaching staff can refine Callaway's skill set and route-running, he could play his way into the league's top tier of receivers.
7. Jarrett Guarantano, redshirt sophomore quarterback
Guarantano's presence on this list is not a guarantee that he will win the starting job. It's merely a reflection of his potential as a quarterback. His arm strength and budding leadership make him a possible standout for this year's Tennessee team. A good Guarantano will mean a better than expected Tennessee.
8. Shy Tuttle, senior defensive tackle
An injury-plagued career is culminating with a new role for Tuttle just as he seemed to be finding a groove near the end of the 2017 season. This year Tuttle will be asked to attract blockers and stuff runners as the nose tackle in Tennessee's 3-4 defensive scheme. A healthy and productive Tuttle would be a huge help for Pruitt and company.
9. Nigel Warrior, junior safety
Second on the team in tackles a season ago, Warrior is back to anchor a secondary that needs its safeties to perform up to their collective level of experience and talent because of questions at cornerback. With a strong third season in the program, Warrior could play his way into consideration for the 2019 NFL draft.
10. Darrin Kirkland Jr., junior linebacker
After indicating that he would leave Tennessee as a graduate transfer, the immensely intelligent but injury-prone Kirkland pivoted. He is back to revitalize his career in orange after missing the entire 2017 campaign. Some health concerns still surround him, but if he's close to the player he was in 2015, he will be a key defensive cog for the Vols in 2018.
Contact David Cobb at dcobb@timesfreepress.com. Follow him on Twitter @DavidWCobb and on Facebook at facebook.com/volsupdate.