Preseason Spotlight on Volunteer Alumni
The NFL preseason has turned into a showcase for former University of Tennessee standouts, with a dozen Volunteers scattered across rosters vying for final roster spots. From backup quarterbacks to rotational defensive backs, each game offers a fresh chance for these alumni to prove that the Vols' legacy extends beyond college football.
Josh Dobbs, who once led the Vols onto the field as a quarterback, now finds himself in Detroit as the Lions' No. 2 signal‑caller. While his playing time remains limited, the move signals the faith the coaching staff places in his poise and football IQ, traits that made him a fan favorite in Knoxville.
In Green Bay, Kamal Hadden is slated to see extensive rotational snaps at cornerback, while tight end McCallan Castles adds depth to the Packers' receiving corps. Both players are expected to contribute on special teams, a pathway that often proves decisive in making the 53‑man roster.
Las Vegas Raiders fans will recognize Dont'e Thornton and Jermod McCoy as key offensive weapons, each expected to feature prominently in the team's preseason offense. Their speed and route‑running prowess echo the dynamic play that defined their Tennessee careers.
Titans’ Prime Matchup
The most anticipated preseason contest for Vols supporters arrives when the Tennessee Titans face the San Francisco 49ers. Five former Volunteers — Alontae Taylor, Jalen McMurray, Hendon Hooker, Morgan Cox, and Dominic Bailey — will be on the field, with Taylor serving as team captain. The game promises a reunion of sorts, pitting former teammates against each other in a battle that could foreshadow regular‑season roles.
Adding to the intrigue, the Lions' matchup also includes former Vols Jabari Small and Tyre West, though the team will be without Cade Mays due to injury. In contrast, the Indianapolis Colts and Arizona Cardinals will field no former Tennessee players, underscoring the selective nature of this year's Volunteer representation.
Beyond the scores, the presence of these alumni reflects a broader trend: NFL teams increasingly value the work ethic and versatility cultivated at Tennessee. As preseason action unfolds, the performances of Dobbs, Hadden, Castles, Thornton, McCoy, Bailey, and Taylor will be closely watched, not only for roster decisions but also for the continuing story of Vols excellence at the professional level.