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Evaluating Tennessee football’s 2023 class at dead period: LB

By Caleb Calhoun

Rossview's RJ McNeil (9) runs the ball as Riverdale's Caleb Herring (11) tackles him on Friday, Aug. 27, 2021, at Riverdale.3 Riverdale Vs Rossview Football
Rossview's RJ McNeil (9) runs the ball as Riverdale's Caleb Herring (11) tackles him on Friday, Aug. 27, 2021, at Riverdale.3 Riverdale Vs Rossview Football /
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Smyrna’s defensive back Thomas Jones (23) runs the ball as he shakes Riverdale’s Caleb Herring (11) tackle and Riverdale’s Najai Watson (20) moves in to stop Jones on Friday, Sept. 24, 2021.3 Smyrna V Riverdale Football
Smyrna’s defensive back Thomas Jones (23) runs the ball as he shakes Riverdale’s Caleb Herring (11) tackle and Riverdale’s Najai Watson (20) moves in to stop Jones on Friday, Sept. 24, 2021.3 Smyrna V Riverdale Football /

Commitments at LB for 2023

Caleb Herring 

  • Four-star
  • 6’5″; 205-210 lbs
  • Murfreesboro, Tenn.; Riverdale High School

The brother of 2022 commitment Elijah Herring, Caleb Herring listed as edge rusher on On3 and 247Sports, so he could end up filling that void. However, he would likely play that in an outside linebacker role for Tennessee football, so he’ll likely join that group.

Herring is the most high-profile commitment for the Vols at this position, and he’s honestly one of the most high-profile commitments on the team in general. An in-state player with that type of talent is the perfect player for Josh Heupel to bolster his defense.

Jalen Smith

  • Four-star (Rivals); Three-star (247Sports, On3, ESPN)
  • 6’0″-6’2″; 200-215 lbs
  • Loganville, Ga.; Grayson High School

More of a pure linebacker, Jalen Smith doesn’t bring the high expectations with him that Caleb Herring brings, but he still brings a good bit of talent. Also, he’ll be more prepared to step in at a linebacker role immediately, so he could compete pretty quickly. Smith and Herring together could make an elite duo in the future, so watch out.

Jeremiah Telander

  • Three-star
  • 6’2″; 205-220 lbs
  • Gainesville, Ga.; Gainesville High School

Just like Jalen Smith, Jeremiah Telander is a Georgia kid committed to Tennessee football. He doesn’t have the same hype as Smith or Herring, but he brings more depth at the position, and it’s possible his frame has him better positioned to make an impact early.

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