Defensive Line
Jonathan Kongbo
Initial ranking: ★★★★
Was it a good ranking? It was a roller-coaster campaign for Kongbo, who came to UT ranked as a five-star prospect by some, but a four-star in the composite ranking. He, frankly, at times seemed to be a bust. After being a non-factor for a few weeks, he posted a picture on Twitter of cleats hanging up following a loss to South Carolina. Butch Jones explained that away as being related to a video game, but doubts persisted. He started to turn into the player that fans expected later in the season. After sliding inside due to losses at defensive tackle, Kongbo thrived in the last couple weeks and played his best game in the Music City Bowl. Whether he plays inside, outside or both next year, if he plays the way he did late in 2016, he could end up being a heck of a player for the Vols.
Rerank: ★★★★
Alexis Johnson
Initial ranking: ★★★★
Was it a good ranking? It was also an eventful year for Tennessee’s other defensive line signee from the JUCO ranks. Johnson was arrested shortly after getting to campus, but eventually had charges dropped and returned to the team in August. It was too late for him to be in shape to be a contributor in 2017. He appeared in one game – the Battle at Bristol – in the final minutes. He looked to be in better shape and set for an expanded role in 2017 during bowl practices. But it clearly wasn’t the first year he was looking for in Knoxville.
Rerank: ★★★
Mykelle McDaniel
Initial ranking: ★★★
Was it a good ranking? After clearing up some academic hurdles, McDaniel was a late add for the Vols during the summer of 2016. He never saw the field and was reportedly suspended indefinitely in December, and there hasn’t been any further official update on his status. Tough to say if he’ll ever play for the Vols.
Rerank: ★★
