The SEC preseason media poll has placed the University of Tennessee among the middle tier, projecting the Vols to finish eighth in the conference.
That projection comes despite the team’s 8‑5 record a year ago, which saw them tie for eighth in the league standings.
Conference powerhouses remain in focus, with Georgia favored to capture its third straight SEC title, edging out Texas by a narrow margin.
Within that context, four Tennessee players have earned preseason recognition, landing on the All‑SEC third team.
Key Returners
DeSean Bishop, who earned All‑SEC honors last season, rushed for 1,076 yards and 16 touchdowns, establishing himself as a cornerstone of the offense.
Wendell Moe, a transfer from Arizona, earned All‑SEC recognition after stepping into both left and right guard spots, bringing veteran stability to the line.
Arion Carter topped the SEC with 7.6 tackles per game last year, though he missed three games due to injury; after declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft, he ultimately withdrew and will return for his senior season.
David Sanders arrived on campus as a five‑star recruit and Freshman All‑American in 2025, and this offseason he is shifting to left tackle, a move that could bolster the Vols’ pass protection.
Looking Forward
With a blend of experienced playmakers and fresh talent, Tennessee hopes to climb beyond the eighth‑place forecast and contend for a deeper postseason run. Coach Josh Heupel and his staff have emphasized discipline and depth in practice, and early indicators suggest the roster is poised to exceed preseason expectations.