With five picks in the 2023 NFL Draft this past month, Tennessee fans are excited to watch the development of their former Volunteers as they embark on new NFL journeys.
Teams have begun off-season programs throughout the spring, allowing rookie players to have a jump start in getting acclimated to their new teams.
Darnell Wright, taken with the 10th overall pick in the first round by the Chicago Bears, looks to be fitting in nicely on The Windy City’s offensive line as he continues to wear No. 58, his same number from the University of Tennessee.
First practice for the rookies ✅ pic.twitter.com/xjqaqiebJN
— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) May 5, 2023
While the Lions did take quarterback Hendon Hooker in the third round of the draft, Detroit head coach Dan Campbell recently said that the team is approaching this year as a “redshirt” season for the Tennessee quarterback as he continues to heal from ACL surgery this past November.
Hooker will be wearing No. 12 on the field as he shifts to the double-digit numbers for the first time in his football career. The Lions have high hopes for Hooker down the road but aren’t in a rush to push him onto the field earlier than need be.
First look at Hendon Hooker in a Lions uniform 👀 pic.twitter.com/ktbD8fHlzU
— Vol Report (@AllVolReport) May 11, 2023
More from RTI: Key Games for Tennessee’s NFL Rookie Class
After being selected by the New York Giants in the third round of the draft, Jalin Hyatt is expected to be one of the premier weapons in Brian Daboll’s offense. Hyatt brings a new element of speed, quickness, and agility to a New York offense that was severely lacking in that department during the 2022 season.
While Hyatt’s No. 11 fit him very well at Tennessee as a slick and speedy receiver, the same number is retired by the New York Giants legend Phil Simms. Hyatt will be bumping up to No. 84 with the Giants as he continues to work and build a strong relationship with quarterback Daniel Jones.
Jalin Hyatt & Eric Gray happy to be sharing field again
📰: https://t.co/1iXbQkrCfp pic.twitter.com/eBrmFPVtvp
— New York Giants (@Giants) May 8, 2023
ROOKS 😤 pic.twitter.com/qQrk8ltOCC
— New York Giants (@Giants) May 7, 2023
While the Cleveland Browns have not posted pictures or videos of Cedric Tillman at practice on social media, the team did announce that the former Tennessee receiver will be wearing No. 89 with the team. Although, that number is said to be subject to change by the start of the season.
rookie numbers are in! pic.twitter.com/c1tXJ2hLNb
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) May 12, 2023
And, possibly saving the best for last, former Volunteer Byron Young looks to wearing No. 0 with Los Angeles according to the team’s official website. The Rams have not posted any pictures or videos of Young at practice yet.
