5 Key Returning Players Who Must Level Up This Spring to Power Tennessee This Fall

As spring practices heat up at the University of Tennessee, the Volunteers are already looking ahead to the 2025 football season. With a promising roster and high expectations, the focus will be on the players who will need to step up their performances in order to make a difference come fall. While Tennessee’s recruiting class and incoming transfers will certainly contribute to the team’s success, it’s the returning players who will hold the key to whether the Volunteers can compete at the highest level in the SEC.

Here are five key returning players who must elevate their games during spring practice to power Tennessee this fall:

1. Joe Milton III, Quarterback

Joe Milton III enters the spring as the presumed starting quarterback for Tennessee after taking over the role last season following Hendon Hooker’s departure to the NFL. Milton possesses a rocket arm and exceptional physical tools, but questions remain about his consistency and ability to execute under pressure. As the leader of the offense, Milton must take a significant leap forward in his decision-making, timing, and accuracy, particularly on deep balls. His development this spring is crucial, not only for Tennessee’s offensive success but also for building confidence in the team. With the Vols’ fast-paced, high-scoring attack, Milton needs to command the offense with precision and poise, delivering plays that push Tennessee closer to an SEC title.

2. Jalin Hyatt, Wide Receiver

Jalin Hyatt was one of the breakout stars of 2024, catching 14 touchdowns and amassing more than 1,200 yards. However, with defenses likely focusing more on him this season, Hyatt will need to develop his game further to continue dominating. His speed and deep threat abilities are unquestioned, but he must refine his route running and improve his work in contested catches. With a new quarterback at the helm in Milton, building chemistry during the spring practices will be vital. Hyatt’s ability to stay healthy and produce consistently in the big games will be essential to Tennessee’s success in the SEC, especially with so much attention being paid to the offense.

3. Byron Young, Defensive End

Byron Young has been a solid contributor on Tennessee’s defensive line, but he has yet to fully reach his potential as an elite pass rusher. Young’s ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks and pressure the pocket will be critical for Tennessee’s defensive schemes. With the team needing more production from the defensive line to complement its high-powered offense, Young must be more disruptive in 2025. His quickness and strength make him a constant threat, but if he can refine his technique and develop more variety in his pass-rushing moves, Young could become one of the top defensive ends in the SEC this fall.

4. Tashaun Manning, Offensive Line

Tennessee’s offensive line has been a key unit for the team in recent years, helping to establish the fast-paced offense and protecting the quarterback. However, with some key departures, Tashaun Manning’s leadership and development this spring will be crucial for the line’s success. Manning has the experience and physical tools to be a standout on the line, but he must work on his consistency and communication with his teammates. The ability to dominate in both the run and pass game will be critical for Tennessee’s success. If Manning can elevate his game and hold his own against the SEC’s toughest defensive lines, the Vols will have a much better chance of executing their offensive schemes at a high level this fall.

5. Alontae Taylor, Cornerback

Alontae Taylor has been a steady presence in the secondary for Tennessee, but in 2025, he will need to elevate his play to become one of the top cornerbacks in the SEC. Taylor’s ability to lock down wide receivers, disrupt passing lanes, and create turnovers will be integral to Tennessee’s defense. With offensive juggernauts across the SEC, a lockdown corner is crucial, and Taylor has the talent to be that player. His awareness and ball skills are already strong, but if he can fine-tune his technique and continue developing his physicality and leadership, Taylor could be a difference-maker on defense for Tennessee this fall.

Conclusion

The 2025 season holds great promise for the Tennessee Volunteers, but the success of their campaign will depend on the development of these key returning players. From the quarterback position to the defense, each of these athletes must take their game to the next level this spring to ensure that the team is ready for the challenges that lie ahead in the SEC. As spring practices progress, Tennessee fans will be closely watching these players to see if they can meet the high expectations placed on them and help the Vols remain a formidable force in college football.