When Jim Knowles came to Tennessee, everyone immediately knew Josh Heupel was serious about taking the Tennessee defense to another level after the struggles in 2025 under Tim Banks. Heupel went out and landed one of the best defensive minds in college football while also attacking the transfer portal for defensive help.
3 Tennessee offensive players I’m buying stock in before fall camp
Knowles’ defense usually takes some time for players to fully adjust to because it’s such a detailed scheme, but Tennessee bringing in several familiar faces from Penn State should help speed up the process.
With that in mind, here are three Tennessee players I’m buying stock in heading into the fall.
1. Daevin Hobbs, DL
In 2025, Daevin Hobbs finished with 30 tackles, 3.0 sacks, 3.5 TFLs, and a forced fumble as a junior. I honestly think he’s a breakout candidate next season, especially with Xavier Gilliam next to him in the middle of the Tennessee defense.
Hobbs has always been one of those high-effort, high-motor guys who flashes really intriguing athleticism. He has the size and speed coaches look for, now it’s about putting everything together consistently. Still, the potential is clearly there. He should help Tennessee against the run while also using his explosiveness to create pressure and make plays in the backfield. He has all the tools to have a very big senior season and to get him in the NFL Draft conversation next spring. I'm buying low here.
2. TJ Metcalf, S
The former Michigan transfer was a huge part of a defense that was dominant last season. TJ Metcalf brings great size to the safety spot at 6-foot-1, 205 pounds, and he loves getting downhill and helping in the run game.
Last year, Metcalf finished with 58 tackles, 2.5 TFLs, and an interception. If he stays healthy, I really think he has All-SEC upside. What stands out most is his effort level and instincts. He may not be the most explosive athlete on the field, but he plays hard nonstop and always seems to find the football. That type of player should fit perfectly in Jim Knowles’ defense at Tennessee next season. Give me all the TJ Metcalf shares.
3. Ty Redmond, CB
One of the biggest breakout players last season for Tennessee was three-star cornerback Ty Redmond, who stepped up in a major way when Tennessee dealt with multiple injuries at the cornerback position. I really liked the way he filled in alongside Colton Hood, and as a true sophomore, he is only going to continue improving. At 6-foot-2, Redmond has all the size you could want in an SEC cornerback while still possessing the change-of-direction ability needed to hold up in coverage.
Last season, in nearly 800 snaps, Redmond posted an 81.6 coverage grade from Pro Football Focus, which ranked among the best for cornerbacks. He also recorded 12 passes defended and three interceptions. Pairing him with experienced veteran Kayin Lee gives Tennessee two potential lockdown corners entering next season. If Redmond continues developing, he could absolutely be discussed as a future first-round NFL Draft prospect. Buy now before it's too late.
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