Offensive Line
Total: 51 starts
Drew Richmond – 13 (16)
Chance Hall – 13 (16)
Trey Smith – 12 (12)
Ryan Johnson – 4 (12)
Devante Brooks – 4 (4)
Marcus Tatum – 3 (6)
Riley Locklear – 2 (4)
Last year, the Vols’ offensive line was easily the most veteran and experienced group on the entire team. They had 110 starts to their credit as a unit, the second-most of any offensive line in the entire FBS.
But that experience meant little when it was all said and done, because Tennessee’s offensive line last season dealt with so many injuries and attrition that the Vols were starting several true and redshirt freshmen by the last month of the season.
This year, Tennessee’s offensive line isn’t nearly as experienced as last season. But the Vols have some solid potential among their linemen, even if injuries and health are still a concern.
Chance Hall is returning from a season-ending injury he sustained in fall camp last year, and Trey Smith is expected to be a full go despite missing all of spring practices with an undisclosed health issue. Drew Richmond has been inconsistent in his time with Tennessee, and the rest of UT’s linemen are either still young or just haven’t played a great deal.
The Vols’ offense will be dictated by how the offensive line performs. This unit may not be as experienced as last year’s line, but they’ll do what they can to play better than last year’s unit.
