KNOXVILLE – One of Tennessee’s lowest-rated defensive back signees in 2019 is likely about to get one of his biggest opportunities.
With Bryce Thompson’s indefinite suspension, his likely replacement in Saturday’s season opener is true freshman cornerback Warren Burrell, who aside from inside linebacker Henry To’o To’o (another likely starter) and running back Eric Gray has generated the most buzz of the newcomers in preseason camp.
But Burrell was only a three-star prospect in the 247Sports.com composite ratings, which averages the combined rankings of 247Sports, Rivals.com and ESPN. Only Rivals had him rated as a four-star prospect.
Of the Volunteers’ four 2019 secondary signees, only Kenney Solomon was rated lower. Jerrod Means, who since signing has been transitioned from receiver to cornerback, is another first-year player likely in the mix for playing time this season. He’s already listed as a second-team cornerback behind sophomore Alontae Taylor.
Coach Jeremy Pruitt already has shown that he will play true freshman defensive backs – Thompson and Taylor were the starting corners, and current starting safety Trevon Flowers started the season opener last season – and Burrell just appears to be the next in line.