Tennessee’s defense has been one of the main concerns for the Volunteers in the offseason and one that they are intent on turning around. A lack of depth and, possibly, leadership have been issues for the Vols, but according to head coach Josh Heupel and defensive coordinator Tim Banks, that leadership role has been filled.
Edge rusher Byron Young played in 11 games with 8 starts, had 46 tackles with 11.5 tackles for loss, and 5.5 sacks in his first season at Tennessee. This year, he was named to the preseason ALL-SEC First Team and is expected to be a sought after 2023 NFL Draft prospect. As for his final season at Tennessee, Heupel and Banks have nothing but good things to say about the 24-year-old.
When asked about how Young is progressing, Heupel responded, “Leadership, communication, trust; he’s taking a whole other step as a person, human being, leader – just really proud of what he’s done coming into his own”.
Heupel went on to praise Young on his physical changes as well, which he contributed to his personal growth off the field. The head coach also discussed Young’s body transformation in adding weight, leaning up, and improving his flexibility.
Not only is Heupel high on Young, Tim Banks is as well. Banks, Tennessee’s defensive coordinator, discussed his growth, leadership potential, and work ethic during Tennessee’s opening media event of the season on Sunday. Banks also talks about how the edge rusher’s new found voice has increased his confidence on and off the field.
