And despite any off-field distractions, Curt Maggitt and A.J. Johnson continue to lead the offseason charge --- and did so this week. That was after those players, as well as Jalen Reeves-Maybin, all met with not only Butch Jones but also linebackers coach Tommy Thigpen early this week.
Elsewhere, we hear Kyler Kerbyson is getting some cross-training at right guard while freshman mid-termer Coleman Thomas continues to impress at right tackle. Thomas, remember, was initially viewed as a potential option at center but he's continued to grow and his athleticism, strength and tenacity are turning heads.
Ethan Wolf continues to be an intriguing player; the mid-termer from Ohio is lending optimism about the potential to make an impact as an athletic, physical presence at tight end for the Vols. Tennessee continues to be in vastly better shape at that spot, with both Wolf and the versatile Daniel Helm as well as Branisel getting back to health, Brendan Downs doing the same and Alex Ellis also continuing to get back in the mix after missing all of last season.
