Josh Heupel's update on David Sanders Jr. has fans way more worried than optimistic

Tennessee has yet to see highly-anticipated five-star offensive lineman David Sanders Jr. make his college debut due to an injury that has kept him out. Sanders was supposed to play in Tennessee's season opener against Syracuse but was a late scratch, missed the game against ETSU, and finally was questionable against Georgia, but ultimately was ruled out before the game.

Sanders has been dealing with a shoulder injury, which is really tough for an offensive lineman, especially when it comes to blocking. Heupel did not sound confident about when the star recruit would make his debut for the Volunteers, as his injury is "unique and unpredictable."

"Mentally, I think anytime anybody in this game gets injured and isn't clear to play, it's a tough battle, mentally," Heupel said in his press conference this week. "You grow, you compete, you strive to get yourself prepared to go play, and he has certainly done that. A unique injury that the doctors are uncertain, that's why he's been day-to-day for a while here."

Heupel also mentioned that Sanders' timeline for returning is unfortunately unknown and not definite. The best-case scenario would be for Sanders to make his debut this week against UAB, a team game where the pressure may not seem so high, versus doing so in SEC play, but he may not have a choice.

Sanders has had a day-to-day designation for a while now, as it is uncertain when the shoulder will feel good enough for him to play. The fact that he is still such a young player also means that the medical staff may not want to push things and ruin something for the future.

There is no telling when the fans will get to see Sanders hit the field in a Tennessee uniform, but fans are sending all their hope and love to Sanders that he will be able to suit up soon for the Volunteers.