With spring ball in full swing for the Tennessee Vols, there's understandably going to be a close eye on all of the new faces in town. On offense, fans have been fired up on the early intel on 5-star tackle David Sanders Jr.
He's not the only true frosh who is turning heads in Knoxville, though. While speaking to the media, quarterback Nico Iamaleava provided a glowing review of wide receiver Travis Smith Jr. The 6-4, 200-pounder is looking to be the next stud outside WR for the Vols.
It's still super early in his career, but Smith indeed is looking sharp thus far during spring ball. It's only going to build his confidence seeing Iamaleava light up while discussing his game:
Tennessee QB Nico Iamaleava has been impressed with WR Travis Smith
"Travis Smith - that's a big dude right there, man," Iamaleava told reporters. "He can run for sure. I saw him out there (Wednesday) make a couple of plays. He's a young guy and when his number gets called I think he'll be ready for sure."
Coming out of high school, Smith was ranked four stars, the No. 10 WR in the country and No. 85 player nationally according to the 247Sports Composite. He chose Tennessee over Alabama, Auburn, Georgia, Arkansas and many others - he had 34 offers throughout his recruitment.
With him graduating from high school early and already being on campus for the start of spring practices, it gives him, Sanders and the other '25 guys a jump start on getting ready for their debut seasons. The quicker Smith can build strong chemistry with Nico, the better.
With so many WRs leaving via the transfer portal this past offseason, it's going to be on Boo Carter (also playing DB), Chris Brazzell, Mike Matthews and others to take charge and be reliable targets for Iamaleava. With that said, Smith will be asked to play beyond his years. The good news here is that the Vols appear to have plenty of trust in him.