Tennessee football: 10 Vols who could leave early for NFL after 2019

KNOXVILLE, TN - NOVEMBER 10: Ty Chandler #8 of the Tennessee Volunteers takes a hand off from Jarrett Guarantano #2 of the Tennessee Volunteers during the second half of the game between the Kentucky Wildcats and the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium on November 10, 2018 in Knoxville, Tennessee. Tennessee won the game 24-7. (Photo by Donald Page/Getty Images)
KNOXVILLE, TN - NOVEMBER 10: Ty Chandler #8 of the Tennessee Volunteers takes a hand off from Jarrett Guarantano #2 of the Tennessee Volunteers during the second half of the game between the Kentucky Wildcats and the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium on November 10, 2018 in Knoxville, Tennessee. Tennessee won the game 24-7. (Photo by Donald Page/Getty Images) /
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With Trey Smith’s health in question, Ty Chandler is the one Tennessee football player most likely to leave early for the NFL after this year. And that comes despite the fact that he splits reps with guys like Tim Jordan.

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We put Jordan at the bottom of this list because of his chances to make headlines by splitting reps. But make no mistake, Chandler is the star running back. And he’s going to be the guy who makes the splash plays to get noticed by scouts.

In 2018, Chandler averaged over five yards a carry with 115 carries for 630 yards and four touchdowns. He added 19 receptions for 183 yards and three touchdowns to prove his versatility as a running back.

Considering the fact that he had a kickoff return for a touchdown his freshman year, it’s clear that Chandler is a tough, speedy back who can do everything. There’s no debate that he’s the best offensive weapon on Rocky Top.

You could even say that Chandler the Vols’ new Alvin Kamara, and with an improved offensive line and second straight year in a pro style offense, his potential is through the roof entering his junior year. There’s no way he can be hidden from pro scouts.

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Jim Chaney loves to turn running backs into superstars as well, and his recent history as an offensive coordinator proves it. So Chandler could become a national star for Tennessee football this year, as it’s pretty clear he’ll get a ton of touches. That’s why he’s No. 1 on our list, and don’t be shocked if he gets lots of pro calls after this season.