Some notes and observations from the open portion of Tennessee’s bowl practice on Monday afternoon.
Several returns: A few players who have been off the practice field for much of the year returned on Monday as the Vols held their first open practice of bowl season. Defensive back Rashaan Gaulden (foot), offensive lineman Austin Sanders (biceps) and linebacker Quart’e Sapp (foot) were all getting reps in the open portion, which was held inside on a rainy Monday afternoon.
We’ll get more updates from Butch Jones on the injury statuses, but don’t expect Gaulden or Sapp to play in the Outback Bowl because both are in line for a medical redshirt season. Austin Sanders, who took a redshirt in 2013, could feasibly play against Northwestern if he’s healthy enough to.
Jones also said that WR Vincent Perry and WR Jason Croom returned to practice and ran routes, though they weren’t out there during the open portion of practice.
Other injury updates: As they have for much of the season, running back Alvin Kamara and Jalen Hurd practiced in green, non-contact jerseys for what are likely precautionary reasons. Defensive back Malik Foreman was also wearing a non-contact jersey.
Linebacker Elliott Berry (knee) is out for the bowl game, Jones confirmed.
Elder still coaching: Mark Elder is still helping the Vols prepare for the Outback Bowl. Elder was named the EKU head coach earlier this month.
More honors: Six Vols were named to AP All-SEC Second Team: linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin, defensive end Derek Barnett, all-purpose Evan Berry, offensive lineman Dylan Wiesman, running back Jalen Hurd and offensive lineman Kyler Kerbyson. Cam Sutton (punt returner) and Evan Berry (kick returner) were also named Second-Team All-Americans by the Football Writer’s Association of America.
