Tennessee football’s top five options to replace Velus Jones Jr.

A converted quarterback, Jimmy Holiday’s speed makes him a candidate to become Tennessee football’s primary returner, and he could step in at slot.

In 2020, Jimmy Holiday decided to move over to wide receiver as an athlete who committed to Tennessee football when quarterback was his primary position. That was back when Jeremy Pruitt was head coach, and he made the move to be able to see the field early. Unfortunately for him to this point, that didn’t work out.

However, that could all change this year. Holiday is one of those guys who brings a rare level of speed to the position, and that’s something you can’t coach. Velus Jones Jr. had speed too, and it’s a natural requirement for being able to have an impact at slot receiver.

Holiday was already getting lots of looks as a kickoff and punt returner, and he’s one of the favorites to fill one of those roles later in the year. With more experience under his belt, he could become a key weapon in Josh Heupel’s system.

As a result, he’s now a bit higher on this list. He still hasn’t proven himself as a pure receiver, which keeps him from being in the top three, but it’s likely he fills one of Jones’ roles this year. Coaches gave him a couple of shoutouts in spring ball, so there’s a chance he does see the field more on offense in general, but he’s got some work to do.