### Way-Too-Early Tennessee Volunteers 2025 Starting Lineup Projection
As the 2025 college football season approaches, anticipation is already building around the Tennessee Volunteers. With a fresh coaching staff led by new manager Nico Iamaleava, the Vols are looking to rebound from previous seasons and establish themselves as a force in the SEC. Here’s a projected starting lineup that could define the 2025 season for Tennessee.
#### Offense
**Quarterback: Nico Iamaleava (Sophomore)**
After an impressive freshman season, Iamaleava steps into a leadership role as the starting quarterback. Known for his strong arm and mobility, he has the potential to elevate the Vols’ offensive play. With a year of experience under his belt, he’ll be looking to showcase his skills in a more complex offensive scheme.
**Running Back: Jabari Small (Senior)**
Small, a dynamic running back with excellent vision and agility, returns for his senior year. His ability to break tackles and contribute in the passing game makes him a versatile threat. Look for him to be a key player in the Vols’ ground attack.
**Wide Receivers:**
– **Squirrel White (Junior)**: Known for his speed and route-running, White has the potential to be a game-changer on the outside.
– **Chase McGrath (Senior)**: A reliable target, McGrath brings experience and toughness, providing Iamaleava with a dependable option in clutch situations.
– **Walker Merrill (Junior)**: With his size and catching ability, Merrill can create mismatches against opposing defenses.
**Tight End: Ethan Davis (Sophomore)**
Davis is an emerging star with great hands and the ability to stretch the field. His versatility will allow him to be a key player in both the passing and run game, creating mismatches for opposing linebackers.
**Offensive Line:**
– **LT: Gerald Mincey (Junior)**
– **LG: Cooper Mays (Senior)**
– **C: Ollie Lane (Senior)**
– **RG: James Pearce (Sophomore)**
– **RT: Darnell Wright (Senior)**
This experienced offensive line is critical for the Vols’ success. With several returning starters, they should provide stability and protection for Iamaleava, allowing the offense to develop and grow.
#### Defense
**Defensive Line:**
– **DE: Tyler Baron (Senior)**
– **DT: Omari Thomas (Senior)**
– **DT: Elijah Simmons (Junior)**
– **DE: Roman Harrison (Senior)**
This defensive front is poised to be one of the strongest in the SEC. With a mix of size, speed, and experience, they will be tasked with stopping the run and applying pressure to opposing quarterbacks.
**Linebackers:**
– **OLB: J.J. Peterson (Senior)**
– **MLB: Keenan Peely (Junior)**
– **OLB: Aaron Beasley (Senior)**
The linebacker corps is dynamic and athletic, with each player bringing a unique skill set. They will be pivotal in defending against both the run and pass, providing leadership and energy to the defense.
**Secondary:**
– **CB: Kamal Hadden (Senior)**
– **CB: Jordan Matthews (Sophomore)**
– **FS: Trevon Flowers (Senior)**
– **SS: Jalen McCullough (Senior)**
With a blend of experience and youth, the secondary looks strong. Hadden’s physical style complements Matthews’ speed, while the safety duo of Flowers and McCullough provides both coverage and run support.
#### Special Teams
**Kicker: Charles Campbell (Senior)**
A consistent kicker, Campbell will be relied upon for both field goals and extra points, ensuring the Vols can capitalize on scoring opportunities.
**Punter: Paxton Brooks (Senior)**
Brooks brings both experience and leg strength, capable of flipping field position when needed.
**Kick Returner: Squirrel White (Junior)**
With his explosive speed, White is a natural choice to take on return duties, potentially turning game momentum in Tennessee’s favor.
### Conclusion
While projecting a starting lineup this early can be a bit of a shot in the dark, the combination of talent, experience, and coaching under Nico Iamaleava provides a promising outlook for the Tennessee Volunteers in 2025. As the team gears up for a pivotal season, fans will be eager to see how this lineup evolves and how the new managerial approach shapes their performance on the field. With the right preparation and execution, the Vols could be primed for a memorable season in the SEC.