As the Tennessee Volunteers continue their ascent under head coach Josh Heupel, the excitement surrounding the program is palpable. With strong recruiting classes, a high-octane offense, and a promising outlook for the 2025 season, optimism is running high in Knoxville. However, beneath the surface of the Vols’ resurgence lies an under-the-radar concern that could come into play: depth and player development in key positions.
While Tennessee has made significant strides in returning to SEC relevance, the grind of the conference and the volatility of college football mean that depth and development challenges could prove critical in determining the Vols’ success in 2025.
One of the most significant hurdles for any SEC program is maintaining depth across the roster. Injuries are an inevitable part of the game, and the ability to plug in capable backups without a drop-off in performance often separates contenders from pretenders.
For the Vols, depth at key positions—such as offensive line, secondary, and linebacker—remains a work in progress. While Heupel’s recruiting classes have added much-needed talent, some areas still lack experienced depth.
The offensive line, in particular, could be a concern. Tennessee’s up-tempo offense relies on linemen who can maintain stamina while executing at a high level for extended drives. The starting unit looks solid heading into 2025, but the backups lack significant game experience. If injuries occur, the Vols could struggle to sustain the offensive efficiency that has become their hallmark.
Recruiting elite talent is only part of the equation. Developing that talent into reliable contributors is equally crucial. Tennessee has landed several top-tier prospects in recent years, but many of them will still be underclassmen in 2025.
The secondary, for instance, has seen an influx of athletic, versatile players. However, young defensive backs often require time to adjust to the speed and complexity of SEC offenses. Mistakes in coverage or blown assignments could be costly, especially against elite quarterbacks like Georgia’s Dylan Raiola or Alabama’s Julian Sayin.
Linebacker play is another area where development will be essential. While the Vols have some promising players, including recent blue-chip recruits, the learning curve for playing in an SEC defense is steep. Tennessee’s linebackers will need to improve in both pass coverage and run support to avoid being exploited by opposing offenses.
The Vols’ 2025 schedule is another reason why depth and development will be tested. Playing in the SEC means facing a gauntlet of elite opponents, with little room for error. In addition to the annual clashes with Alabama, Georgia, and Florida, Tennessee will also face challenging non-conference games that could stretch the roster thin.
Games against physical teams like South Carolina or Texas A&M could leave players banged up heading into pivotal matchups. Without adequate depth, Tennessee risks faltering late in the season when fatigue and injuries typically take their toll.
Another under-the-radar concern is Tennessee’s special teams unit. While often overlooked, special teams can be a game-changer in close contests. The Vols will need to ensure consistency in the kicking game and avoid coverage breakdowns that could swing momentum in tight matchups.
Despite these concerns, there are reasons to believe Tennessee can address these challenges. Heupel and his staff have shown a commitment to player development, emphasizing strength and conditioning as well as film study. The Vols’ recruiting strategy also focuses on building depth, with an emphasis on versatile players who can fill multiple roles.
Additionally, Tennessee’s offensive system can help mask some deficiencies. By controlling the tempo and putting pressure on opposing defenses, the Vols can limit the exposure of their own vulnerabilities. However, this strategy will only work if the starting lineup remains healthy and the backups are prepared to step in when needed.
The 2025 season holds immense promise for the Tennessee Volunteers, but the program’s under-the-radar concerns about depth and player development cannot be ignored. In the unforgiving SEC, where one injury or one blown assignment can change the course of a season, the Vols must be prepared to navigate these challenges.
If Tennessee can address these areas and continue building a culture of resilience and preparation, the Vols have the potential to not only contend for an SEC title but also solidify their place as a national powerhouse. However, the road ahead is fraught with challenges, and how Tennessee handles them will ultimately determine their fate in 2025.