Tennessee football is looking to improve on special teams in year two under coordinator Evan Crabtree. There were certainly positives from his first year, but also areas to grow.
One of those rough spots was at place kicker. Max Gilbert had a tough year, particularly with pressure kicks, and is now at Arkansas through the portal. In response, the Vols went out and landed Louisville kicker Cooper Ranvier to fulfill the duties. Behind him will be veteran Josh Turbyville and second-year Grady Dangerfield.
At kickoff specialist, it’ll be Turbyville doing the duties. He’s locked down the spot and shown the ability to consistently provide touchbacks out of the back of the end zone.
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The punter spot also sees a return of a starter. For his final year of eligibility, Jackson Ross returns for his fourth-straight year as the starting punter. He’s a rugby-style punter who is capable of using both legs, but he’s also shown the ability to be a more traditional punter if needed. Behind Ross is Turbyville and fellow Australian and freshman Logan Foley.
At long snapper, it’ll be Bennett Brady returning to reprise the starting role. He enters his redshirt-senior year after sitting behind Matthew Salansky to begin his career. He is not only a consistent snapper, but has shown a willingness to get involved in punt coverage and make athletic plays downing the ball. Other longsnappers include Eastern Kentucky transfer Blake Howard, John Rosen and linebacker Ryan Scott.
Other players on special teams to note are a pair of former high school teammates. Both App State transfer DJ Burks and returner Mike Bethea II will be critical pieces on those units with plenty of experience.
