Cornerback
1. Dale Carter, 1990-1991
Joining Chuck Smith and Chris Mims, Dale Carter helped Tennessee football have a shockingly good defense, which is why the Vols repeated as SEC Champions. Carter was a two-time All-American cornerback in the two years he played on Rocky Top.
During those years, Carter had a total of nine interceptions, including a pick-six in 1990. He was a superstar and the most talented cornerback to ever play for Johnny Majors, so he obviously would be the top guy here. A 14-year Pro Bowl NFL career to follow validates that.
2. Roland James, 1976-1979
The first All-American ever to play for Johnny Majors, Roland James was more of a linebacker when Majors first arrived. However, he switched to cornerback that first year, and it paid off. In three years there.
As a defensive back, James had 10 interceptions in three years, including seven in 1978 and a pick-six. Because of that, he is clearly the other guy qualified to start at cornerback alongside Carter. He also proved his talent with an 11-year NFL career.
3. Terry McDaniel, 1984-1987
If a guy were to play nickel in this system, Terry McDaniel would be that guy. He was a star for the Vols in the mid-1980s. In his final three years, he helped the Vols to their first SEC Championship under Majors and their first 10-win season. He had six interceptions those years, including three in 1986, and then he had an 11-year NFL career, becoming a Pro Bowler like Carter.
4. Jeremy Lincoln, 1987-1991
Darryl Hardy blocked the first kick in the Miracle at South Bend. Jeremy Lincoln blocked the potential game-winner to secure Tennessee football’s win. That alone isn’t why he’s on here, though. Lincoln helped UT win the SEC title as a starter in 1990, and he had three interceptions his final two years before enjoying a nine-year NFL career. He’d be the reserve here.