3. Rashaan Gaulden, Defensive Back
Rashaan Gaulden is arguably the best player on Tennessee’s defense heading into this season. Yet when the discussion of best defensive player comes up, Gaulden is almost never mentioned.
There’s a reason you don’t hear Gaulden’s name a ton during games, and it’s because opposing quarterbacks aren’t throwing to him a ton. Gaulden has been a solid nickel corner for the Vols when he’s been healthy, and he has the physicality and tenacity to play close to the line of scrimmage as well.
In a full redshirt sophomore campaign last season, Gaulden was third on the team in tackles with 68 and also had six tackles for loss, four passes defended, and forced a fumble.
The Vols’ secondary had a rough time last season, but Gaulden was one of the few exceptions most of the time. The Vols need Gaulden to perform well again this year, and according to coaches during fall camp, he’s been one of the most consistent players on defense so far.
