The first fall camp scrimmage of the 2026 Tennessee Volunteers football season offered a glimpse into the coaching staff’s emerging depth chart, highlighting several key starting roles that could shape the team’s identity on both sides of the ball.
Projected Offensive Skill Positions
Faizon Brandon emerged as the leading candidate for the quarterback position, his high ceiling and sharp performance in the camp earning him the top spot. DeSean Bishop, meanwhile, is slated to carry the bulk of the rushing load, with Javin Gordon and Daune Morris battling for secondary snaps behind him.
At wide receiver, Travis Smith Jr. appears to have edged out TK Keys for a starting role, while Braylon Staley is expected to line up in the slot and Mike Matthews will see time on the outside. Ethan Davis is projected to start at tight end provided he stays healthy, with DaSaahn Brame serving as the backup option.
The offensive line will be anchored by David Sanders Jr. at left tackle, Wendell Moe Jr. at guard and Sam Pendleton at center, giving the unit a solid foundation heading into the season.
Defensive Front and Secondary
Defensively, Tyree Weathersby is expected to lock down the starting defensive end spot, while Daevin Hobbs and Xavier Gilliam are likely to share the other edge positions. In the secondary, Ty Redmond and Kayin Lee will start at cornerback, with Qua Moss anchoring the safety position and TJ Metcalf and Dejuan Lane rotating as free safeties.
Special Teams Outlook
Special teams will feature Cooper Ranvier as the kicker, a transfer from Louisville, while Jackson Ross returns as punter and Josh Turbyville continues as the kickoff specialist. Tyreek King is slated to handle punt return duties, though Joakim Dodson may also see action after his strong showing in previous games.