ESPN names Tennessee Vols' biggest impact newcomer ahead of the 2024 season

Earlier this week, ESPN named the most impactful newcomer for each top 25 college football team and they went with a former five-star recruit for the Tennessee Vols.  ESPN thinks true freshman wide receiver Mike Matthews will be the Vols' most impactful newcomer.  From ESPN: Why: Tennessee returns its leading receiver from 2023, Squirrel White, […]

Zach Ragan — Tennessee Volunteers News Writer
Add as preferred source on Google
Tennessee Vols football news

Earlier this week, ESPN named the most impactful newcomer for each top 25 college football team and they went with a former five-star recruit for the Tennessee Vols. 

ESPN thinks true freshman wide receiver Mike Matthews will be the Vols' most impactful newcomer. 

From ESPN: Why: Tennessee returns its leading receiver from 2023, Squirrel White, along with veterans Bru McCoy and Dont'e Thornton Jr. So why pick a true freshman receiver? Because Matthews is simply that good. The five-star prospect is 6-foot-1 and almost 190 pounds with a wide catch radius and 4.48 verified speed. The slot position is integral for Josh Heupel's offense and Matthews has the skill set to shine there.

What to expect: Matthews should rise up the depth chart and become Nico Iamaleava's top slot target by midseason. Matthews' versatility to play outside should garner even more targets. The sample size this spring has been impressive. He's gotten bigger, stronger and more explosive to beat contested matchups while retaining his excellent skills when the ball is in the air. He's confident and competitive, which is necessary for a true freshman in the SEC.

Tennessee brought in several newcomers that could've been considered by ESPN. Tulane transfer wide receiver Chris Brazzell, true freshman wide receiver Braylon Staley, and true freshman defensive back Boo Carter are all newcomers that could make a big impact for the Vols this fall. 

Matthews, however, has a ton of upside in Josh Heupel's up-tempo offense. His elite skills combined with a wide receiver-friendly scheme could lead to a huge true freshman season for the Georgia native. 

Related Articles