Who's ready for some football? Yes, Rick Barnes, Kim Crawford and Tony Vitello have hoops and baseball fans excited over what's going on in Knoxville, but it's time for some pads to be put back on as well. That's because spring football is around the corner for the Tennessee football team.
The last time we saw Josh Heupel and his players on the gridiron, a rough loss against Ohio State (eventual champs) in the College Football Playoff was posted. Since then, the locker room has been motivated to wipe away that loss and be ready to make statements throughout 2025.
Well, everyone will have the chance to impress Heupel early next month with the start of spring ball. That's right, Tennessee will take the field on March 7 for the start of spring camp. Things will then get wrapped up on April 12 with the spring game at Neyland Stadium.
Tennessee football will start spring practices on March 7
Throughout camp, there are going to be some interesting battles for everyone to keep an eye on. The one at running back is no question one that jumps out. The 2024 SEC Offensive Player of the Year won't be back on campus, as Dylan Sampson is ready to make the jump to the NFL.
Via the transfer portal, Heupel was able to land Duke running back Star Thomas, who is considered the favorite to win the RB1 job. It won't be easy for him, however, as DeSean Bishop and Peyton Lewis are ready to push for serious playing time.
Nico Iamaleava will also need to build some chemistry with his wide receivers unit. Boo Carter nearly left the program, with reports stating he wants to play offense. The stud defensive back ended up staying, but will he be going both ways during spring camp? That's the expectation, so put that down on your list of notes for things to monitor.