Tennessee football: 5 concerns surrounding Vols offseason

3. Trey Smith health

Tennessee football’s offensive line was horrendous last year, but to nobody’s surprise, Trey Smith was the best player out there. And his return from blood clots was one to be celebrated for the future of the program.

But then the blood clots returned and he was shut down for the season just before the Vols game at the South Carolina Gamecocks. Had he been able to play, UT may have won another game or two down the stretch.

Now, heading into the offseason, Jeremy Pruitt is hoping more practices can develop his line. He also is recruiting heavily at that position in hopes of getting immediate help. But some proven talent would be useful, and that’s what Smith is supposed to bring.

Without Smith, Pruitt and the Vols are entering a period of insane uncertainty up front, and that’s a huge problem. That’s a huge problem for Rocky Top and one that can’t be fixed with just one offseason of development and one recruiting class.

Smith may never return. Obviously, his health is the most important thing. And it’s a terrible break for him. The Vols, though, could definitely use their best lineman going forward if they’re going to develop as a program. And not having Smith significantly limits their options.

Even with this loaded class and the potential to add Darnell Wright, Smith being back would give Pruitt a huge boost. He’d be able to mix and match his tackles and guards more. But Smith being gone leaves the unit thin and under-developed.