Tennessee football’s top five options to replace JaVonta Payton
6'3 195 lbs. Ramel Keyton. 2. Senior. player. 839. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis
Since 2019, Ramel Keyton has shown promise as a wideout for Tennessee football. Could this be the year he puts it all together?
Once a four-star recruit, it’s shocking that Cedric Tillman was Tennessee football’s No. 1 wideout last year and won the job over Ramel Keyton. As a freshman, Keyton caught four passes for 104 yards, but all signs pointed to him being the guy in line to become the go-to receiver after Jauan Jennings, Marquez Callaway, Josh Palmer and Brandon Johnson left.
Indeed, Keyton caught the first pass of 2020, even with Palmer and Johnson on the roster. However, he only finished with nine catches for 76 yards and still no touchdowns. There was the excuse of the horrific offense, though. Then came last year, and he only caught seven passes for 72 yards. He’s still looking for his first touchdown.
Simply put, Keyton has a ton of raw potential and has shown it time and time again, but two separate coaching staffs have avoided making him a go-to guy. Tillman was a breakout star, Jalin Hyatt has garnered more hype, and a slew of new receivers have entered the program.
Amidst all that, it’s impossible to ignore Keyton’s potential and experience. This could be the year he finally steps up and becomes a key wideout opposite Tillman for the Vols. If he becomes a breakout player this year, watch out. It’s certainly possible, and he could still become the No. 1 guy after Tillman leaves.