4. Offensive line
Yes, even after the impressive haul in the 2015 class, the offensive line will remain a priority in 2016 thanks in large part to some of the poor O-line recruiting by Derek Dooley and staff at the end of his tenure. The Vols have 10 returning scholarship offensive linemen, two early enrollees already on campus and three more, including elite offensive tackle prospect Drew Richmond, scheduled to be on campus this summer. So while the position looks much better than it did coming into 2014, the Vols could still lose as many as three starting offensive linemen after next season, and fixing a group that was arguably the worst in the SEC can take more than one class.
Look for Tennessee to add 3-4 new offensive linemen with probably at least two guys who are true tackle types. O-line is always a tough position to keep well-stocked, and going a full recruiting cycle without any (2012) put them behind for several years.
Some 2016 OL names to know:
• Ryan Johnson (committed)
• Bryce Mathews
• Jay Jay McGargo
• Landon Dickerson
• Devin Cochran
