It has become readily apparent that Josh Heupel’s offense provides plenty of opportunity for skilled receivers in a variety of ways. Walker Merrill just wants to fit it.
Merrill, who is from Brentwood, Tenn., doesn’t care if he’s tabbed to play slot receiver or wideout. He just wants to get more than the 81 offensive snaps he received last season.
“Really, I want to play anywhere that coach puts me,” Merrill said. “I’ll impact the team in any way I can. I’m just trying to work hard because I’m tired of not playing.
“I want to play. I want to be on the field and help our team win in any way possible.”
Merrill was limited in spring practice with a knee injury. That hasn’t held him back during preseason camp at all.
“He has been really good,” Tennessee receivers coach Kelsey Pope said. “He plays harder than anyone on the field, so he is always going to give himself a chance to be successful.”
When asked about how he feels physically after being in Tennessee’s system for a season, Merrill said,” I’d say I feel a lot better than I felt last year. I really took the weight room seriously and I can see changes in my body from this year to last year.
“I feel better running. Condition-wise, I feel better. I’d say that me taking the weight room seriously, that really impacted the way that camp is going right now.”
The Vols have plenty of talented receivers on their roster. That can make it hard to show up during preseason camp. Merrill feels as if he’s been able to do so despite the depth of competition.
“I think I’ve made some plays, but I think our whole receiving corps has done a great job of also making plays,” Merrill said. “I’ve definitely made improvements
“I’ve taken a step from freshman year to sophomore year. I think throughout the whole receiving group I feel like we’ve made a great stride of making plays, and that’s what we need to be doing to win games.”
