KNOXVILLE Robert Meachem can tell that his friend is hurting.
Through three days of preseason practice, there have been moments when Jayson Swains bum knee looks as healthy as he says it is. Other times, Tennessees most experienced receiver has shown signs be it a slight limp, a grimace or the decision to sit out a drill of potential trouble.
"It does inspire us," fellow receiver Meachem said, "if hes going to push himself through a lot of pain. He could really just go sit down and rehab it and stay there by himself. But hes fighting out there."
Swain has accepted its something hes going to have to deal with this season. Right now isnt the same as spring practice, which Swain could afford to miss when his knee would swell when he pushed it.
This is his senior year, one shaping up as a pivotal stage for the future of Tennessees program. Swain doesnt want to miss it, but whether hell ultimately be a part of the Volunteers 2006 season could hinge on his ability to handle the pain.
"I can deal with it to a certain extent," Swain said. "Some injuries, you cant just ice it and do the normal things you do. Sometimes it takes rest, and Ive been getting a lot of that. Its seeming to be the answer."
Back during the spring, there was talk that Swain may have to redshirt this season because of his recurring knee trouble. But several offseason steps, according to Swain, have helped a great deal.
The first was rest, basically by receiver coach Trooper Taylors orders. Another was arthroscopic surgery to detect and correct a problem that reportedly has lingered since Swains days in high school.
Swain also worked to drop a few pounds, and although he said hes still hovering near 205 pounds, he can tell a difference on the field.
"I feel better than Ive felt before," Swain said.
Nevertheless, Tennessees coaches and trainers are keeping close tabs on him during preseason practice. The plan calls for Swain to not push too hard right now to be ready for the Sept. 2 opener against California.
That means time watching even coaching on the sideline during practice. While some might like the break, Meachem understands how difficult that has been for a "competitive" guy like Swain.
"That heat is no joke," Meachem said. "Its taking a toll on lot of people, but for him to be out there just watching, his presence is amazing for us. He could be indoors sitting in the training room getting ice and treatment, but hes out there."
Yet that question lingers: Will Swain be ready for the fall?
Coaches have said hell participate in full-speed contact work next week. Vols coach Phillip Fulmer has praised Swains leadership, making him a candidate to be named a captain before the season opener.
The real answer, in time, can only come from Swain himself.
"Theres a difference between pain and injury, and I know that sounds like a cliché," Taylor said. "But if its working, then its not injured. It may be some pain. It may be sore. But if you can use it, then its not injured.
"He has to learn the difference."
