Tennessee freshman running back Jeremy Banks has shown flashes of potential on the field this season, but he’s had issues holding onto the ball when he’s been in on offense. But he’s also been on UT’s special teams, and he plays with some physicality and tenacity when pursuing ball carriers on return coverage teams as well.
It’s likely because of that and his inability to hold onto the ball on offense that prompted Jeremy Pruitt to move him to another position at practice today.
David Ubben of The Athletic put out video of Banks receiving one-on-one attention from Pruitt during Tuesday’s practice as Banks went through reps with Tennessee’s linebackers. Banks has only played running back for the Vols in his first year with the program, but today he spent time with the linebackers.
Freshman RB Jeremy Banks was working at LB in practice today. HC Jeremy Pruitt twice gave him 1-on-1 teaching away from drills during the open period. pic.twitter.com/jU0h3nW5Fn
— David Ubben (@davidubben) October 23, 2018
More of Banks working at LB. pic.twitter.com/nf9cpiAqiW
— David Ubben (@davidubben) October 23, 2018
More of Banks getting 1-on-1 instruction. pic.twitter.com/6CmmtPQ3Qd
— David Ubben (@davidubben) October 23, 2018
The 6-foot-1, 211-pound Banks was working with the inside linebackers during practice.
Tennessee will have another open portion of practice on Wednesday, and we will be there to monitor whether or not Banks is still with the linebackers for that practice. Pruitt will also speak with the media after practice on Wednesday, and he will be asked about the move and will clarify then.
So far in five appearances on offense this season for Tennessee, Banks has 41 carries for 161 yards and three touchdowns as well as a catch for 10 yards. His three rushing touchdowns are tied with Madre London for the most on the team. He does, however, have three fumbles on the season, and two have been recovered by opponents. He also has a tackle on special teams that he picked up against Alabama.
