Most upperclassmen for Tennessee Football are seniors or graduate seniors in their final year of eligibility. The COVID ruling fro 2020 throws things off and lessens the number of upperclassmen juniors, but they do exist on the Vols, and they are some of UT’s best weapons. Here are Rocky Top’s five best juniors entering 2024.
5. Joshua Josephs
Multiple junior defensive linemen could break out this year. Joshua Josephs on the edge and Jaxson Moi in the middle are both candidates. Moi, however, will be part of a crowded field of defensive tackles. Josephs is going to be the primary starter opposite James Pearce Jr., so many teams will run his way. It’s up to him to make the plays.
4. Dylan Sampson
Questions continue over whether or not Dylan Sampson could be a feature back for Tennessee Football given his size, but he definitely is the go-to all-purpose back for 2024. Sampson, if he could pick up pass protection, would immediately be as elite as Alvin Kamara. At the very least, he’ll be a crucial part of the Vols’ offense.
3. Squirrel White
While Josh Heupel’s offense is loaded at wideout, Squirrel White is the easy favorite in the slot. He’s been there for two years now, making a ton of plays last year amidst all the injuries down the stretch. Braylon Staley could make a push, and Dont’e Thornton could move over, but White is the star here, so look for him to rack up tons of yards.
2. Jakobe Thomas
Two of the three transfer defensive backs Tennessee Football brought in to start immediately, Jakobe Thomas and Jalen McMurray, are both juniors. Thomas, though, is more likely to see a lot of action, as the MTSU Blue Raiders transfer appears to be the favorite to lock down the free safety spot. He’ll be key to helping Boo Carter turn into a star.
1. James Pearce Jr.
Is there any doubt about this one? James Pearce Jr. could be the most important player on Tennessee Football period, and he’s a potential No. 1 draft pick. The superstar edge rusher should have more opportunities to wreak havoc this year with a better secondary and an offense that will get more early leads, and although he’s a junior, he’s likely gone after this year.
