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Tennessee football: Top five performers in 2021 spring game

By Caleb Calhoun

Tennessee running back Jabari Small (20) runs the ball as Tennessee linebacker Morven Joseph (19) defends at the Orange & White spring game at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Saturday, April 24, 2021.Kns Vols Spring Game
Tennessee running back Jabari Small (20) runs the ball as Tennessee linebacker Morven Joseph (19) defends at the Orange & White spring game at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Saturday, April 24, 2021.Kns Vols Spring Game /
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Dec 5, 2020; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. (1) waits for a kickoff during the first half against the Florida Gators at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 5, 2020; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. (1) waits for a kickoff during the first half against the Florida Gators at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports /

839. Scouting Report. Wide receiver. Senior. Velus Jones Jr.. Pick Analysis. 4. player

3 catches for 86 yards, 1 TD

He’s expected to be the go-to playmaker for Tennessee football this year, and at least in the Orange and White game, Velus Jones Jr. did not disappoint. Entering his second year with the Vols, taking advantage of the NCAA eligibility ruling for seniors, the USC Trojans graduate transfer was one of the guys to see action on both sides.

Jones caught one pass for 14 yards with the White. While with the Orange, he had two catches for 72 yards, including a touchdown catch. We’re still not sure if Jones will be the No. 1 or the No. 2 receiver for the Vols, but of all the receivers against first team competition on Saturday, he performed the best and made his case to be the top guy.

To be fair, Jones’ touchdown was off a busted coverage, but part of that was due to a great route he ran. That’s why the touchdown catch was so easy, and you have to give him credit for making it look as easy as it was if you’re going to take away credit from him for it being easy.

Based on what we saw in this game, Jones is still the go-to receiver for Rocky Top going forward. Others probably have more potential, but they will have to compete in training camp to prove it. There’s no doubt that Jones is currently the top playmaker.

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