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KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Team 120 will begin fall camp Aug. 1.
It will be a crucial time heading into a season with a lot of hype, after being named SEC East favorites, as Mike DeBord and Bob Shoop put the final touches on their plan for the offense and defense.
With installation comes progression from key players who can be counted on throughout the season, and certain players who can play an even bigger part this season.
You know the stars. Here are five other players to watch this preseason:
Preston Williams, WR: The highly touted receiver appeared in eight games during his 2015 freshman season. Williams missed four games due to a hamstring injury.
His first catch was a touchdown reception against Western Carolina, and he also reeled in a second touchdown catch in the same game, becoming the first Vol since Justin Hunter (2010) to have two TD catches in a game as a freshman.
Williams finished with 7 receptions for 158 yards and those 2 TDs. Much more is expected, particularly as Tennessee puts more emphasis on its deep passing game. The 6-4, 209-pound talent can bring a presence to the Tennessee passing game if he can stay healthy while continuing to develop. He will be one to keep an eye on during camp.
Jeff George, WR: Another receiver to keep an eye on. George enters the Volunteer program from Dodge City C.C., and showed in the spring game how he can make an immediate impact.
His 6-6, 195-pound frame is one of a possession receiver, and one that can replace Von Pearson in the slot. He can also bring a presence as a red-zone threat with his height, which he demonstrated this spring.
George led Dodge City C.C. with 49 receptions in 2015 for 685 yards and five touchdowns. In 2014, George produced 46 receptions, 690 receiving yards, and scored four touchdowns.
Darrin Kirkland, Jr., LB – Kirkland Jr. had an impressive 2015 freshman season, appearing in all 13 games and starting 10.
Kirkland Jr. continued to get better as the season went on, distancing himself from other linebackers. He recorded 66 tackles (6.5 TFLs), 3.0 sacks, and had one interception.
He was a surprise in 2015. He’ll enter 2016 as an established playmaker and partner to Jalen Reeves-Maybin.
Rashaan Gaulden, DB: Gaulden missed the 2015 season with a foot injury that occurred in fall camp. Now Gaulden is back and should provide an immediate impact in the secondary.
Gaulden played in 11 games as a true freshman in 2014, recording 11 tackles (five on special teams). Now a spotlight will be on Gaulden’s return and being played in Shoop’s scheme.
“He’s 176 pounds but thinks he’s 205,” Shoop told the Times Free Press. “He throws his body in there with velocity. He’s reckless in a good way.”
Jonathan Kongbo, DL: Kongbo was wanted by many leading up to signing day in February. The 6-6, 282-pound defensive lineman chose the Vols and to play for Shoop.
The Arizona Western JUCO transfer has put on weight in preparation for the upcoming season. Kongbo recorded 55 tackles (16 TFLs) and 11 sacks. His best game performance was nine tackles (6 TFLs) and five sacks.
There will be much anticipation to see Kongbo’s speed and strength when he takes the practice field and his ability to play defensive tackle and end.
Dan Harralson covers Tennessee football for SaturdayDownSouth.com. Follow Dan on Twitter @danharralson.
