KNOXVILLE – Prior to Monday evening, Derek Barnett last stepped on a football field for live action exactly seven months ago, when Tennessee whipped Northwestern in the Outback Bowl.
The star defensive end was a spectator when the Volunteers held spring practices in March and April, which only made him more eager to start his junior season.
“I was ready,” Barnett said after Tennessee wrapped up its first practice of the season at Haslam Field, “and it felt good to be out here.”
The Vols hope the good feelings continue through the next five-plus months.
As the favorite to win the SEC East and compete for the conference crown, Tennessee is entering its most anticipated season in years. As the team began its preparations Monday, one month before the Thursday night opener against Appalachian State, the Vols are trying to remain grounded and keep their focus in the moment.