A Revamped Receiver Room
The University of Tennessee is poised to field a record‑breaking 16 wide receivers in the upcoming 2026 season, a depth chart that reflects both continuity and fresh infusion of talent.
Among the returnees, Chris Brazzell II emerged as the Vols’ top pass catcher in 2025, amassing 1,017 receiving yards and nine touchdowns, while Braylon Staley, the 2025 SEC Freshman of the Year, paced the group with 68 receptions.
Veteran Mike Matthews added 60 catches for 903 yards and six scores across the 2024‑25 stretch, providing a reliable target for the offense.
The room also welcomes transfers such as Ian Duarte, who spent three seasons at Idaho State before joining the Vols, and Radarious Jackson, who contributed nine receptions for 90 yards in his second year, as well as Travis Smith Jr., who logged three catches and 29 yards over seven games last season.
Adding to the mix, Mississippi’s top‑ranked recruit TK Keys enrolled early and took part in spring practices, while Knoxville native Tyreek King, a June enrollee, brings local excitement to the freshman class.
Special teams also saw a spark when Joakim Dodson returned a kickoff 94 yards for a touchdown in the 2025 Music City Bowl, underscoring the playmaking potential across the roster.
Looking Ahead to 2026
With a blend of experience, high‑ranked prospects and versatile playmakers, Tennessee’s coaching staff believes the expanded receiver corps will open new possibilities for offensive creativity and help the team contend for a deeper postseason run.