Linebackers
New additions: Darrin Kirkland Jr., Austin Smith, Quart’e Sapp
Daniel: Kirkland is the big splash. He should be able to compete for immediate playing time at inside linebacker. Getting somebody like him was essentially to this class being a success. Don’t sleep on the other two, though. I think Smith is one of the more underrated players in this class. He’s versatile, played for a great program and could help on special teams from Day 1. Sapp could be a special teams ace early as well, with the potential to add 20-30 pounds and become an every-down outside linebacker that matches up well against spread offenses. In a perfect world UT would’ve signed one or two more at this position to help replenish some depth, but with space restrictions, this is a solid trio. Grade: A-
Houston: This group was already strong with Kirkland Jr. and Austin Smith committed, but the late addition of Quart’e Sapp took this unit to the next level. Kirkland Jr. is already on campus and has all of the tools to turn into a All-SEC type of player for the Vols with good coaching and development, while Smith and Sapp give the coaches two fast and versatile players to use on the outside. Coaches know that they have their work cut out for them in replacing A.J. Johnson’s production in the middle, but Kirkland Jr. is the perfect type of player for John Jancek’s system and the head start should help him see the field quickly. Sapp and Smith are likely special teams players for the Vols in year one, but I wouldn’t rule out a redshirt for one or both of them as the coaches attempt to stagger the depth. Quality over quantity for the Vols at LB. Grade: A
