The Southeastern Conference’s annual media days will take place from July 20 to July 23 at the Tampa Marriott Water Street and the JW Marriott, drawing coaches, players and reporters from across the league.
Tennessee, however, will not be sending a quarterback to the event, a decision driven by an unsettled competition for the starting spot under head coach Josh Heupel.
Who will speak for the Vols?
Instead of a signal‑caller, the university has selected linebackers Arion Carter and Jeremiah Telander, alongside running back DeSean Bishop, to represent the Volunteers in Tampa.
The quarterback battle remains open, with redshirt freshman George MacIntyre and true freshman Faizon Brandon emerging as the leading candidates.
MacIntyre’s limited action last season included two brief appearances, during which he completed seven of nine passes for 69 yards.
Brandon, the top recruit of the 2026 class, is ranked tenth overall nationally and third among quarterbacks, bringing high expectations to the field.
Leadership on defense
Carter paced the team in tackles throughout the regular season and earned a place on the coaches’ All‑SEC second team, underscoring his impact on the defensive unit.
Telander followed closely, finishing second on the squad in tackles and adding depth to a linebacker corps that has become a cornerstone of Tennessee’s defense.
A breakout season for the offense
Bishop’s debut as the starting running back was nothing short of spectacular; he amassed 1,076 rushing yards and scored sixteen touchdowns, a performance that also made him a semifinalist for the Burlsworth Trophy, awarded to the most outstanding walk‑on player in college football.
The combination of a fortified defensive front and a dynamic rushing attack positions the Volunteers as a formidable contender as they head into the upcoming season, even as the quarterback position continues to be evaluated.