Tennessee football: Vols top five seniors for 2019 season

He’s not going to rack up the stats on defense that Darrell Taylor does. Heck, he doesn’t rack up the stats that his dad, two-time All-American and eventual NFL Pro Bowler Dale Carter, did with Tennessee football back in the day. And he clearly won’t get the offensive shine as a receiver that Marquez Callaway or Jauan Jennings get.

But Nigel Warrior is still a top player on this team and one of the most crucial members of the defense. Jeremy Pruitt’s superb recruiting and scouting of athletes has the Vols set at cornerback with sophomore stars Alontae Taylor and Bryce Thompson. But Baylen Buchanan is out. The other safety spot is up for grabs. And Warrior is the only proven guy with consistent experience.

As a result, Warrior is the guy who keeps the whole secondary together. He’s going to have to do his part to allow the young corners to shine. In fact, his play is the only reason they can. He shuts off a side of the field a lot and just doesn’t get the recognition. Warrior is also a physical player, racking up five and a half tackles for a loss in his career.

This level of versatility is why Pruitt is willing to use him at star and at safety. And given his multiple skills set, he remains the most important secondary player by far and one of the most important defensive players. His senior leadership will be key for this team.