2. Henry To’oto’o, LB
Though he didn’t enrol early like Crouch, Henry To’oto’o could have as much of an impact as his fellow freshman linebacker, if not more so.
To’oto’o has already been praised this fall by Jeremy Pruitt as being an extremely cerebral linebacker who is already picking up on UT’s defensive concepts very well. The freshman from California is showing aptitude on the mental side that isn’t common for most true freshman.
But a high football IQ isn’t all To’oto’o brings to the table.
The highly-rated linebacker has very fluid hips and can move exceptionally well in space. That’s a big key for inside linebackers in Pruitt’s system, and he’s already challenging veterans opposite Daniel Bituli for playing time early into fall camp thanks to his blend of knowledge and athleticism.
Even if he never earns an actual “start” at linebacker for the Vols this season, To’oto’o should play a significant role in what Tennessee’s defense does this season. Barring any sort of major setback between now and the start of the season, To’oto’o figures to at least be featured fairly heavily in UT’s linebacker rotation at one of the two inside linebacker spots.
