Tennessee Vols starter announces he's returning in 2023
Tennessee Vols redshirt senior tight end Jacob Warren announced on Wednesday that he's returning to UT in 2023 for a sixth season. Warren, a Knoxville native, made the announcement via a social media post. "My time in Knoxville has been amazing," wrote Warren. "I love this place and the people that I have been on […]
Tennessee Vols redshirt senior tight end Jacob Warren announced on Wednesday that he's returning to UT in 2023 for a sixth season.
Warren, a Knoxville native, made the announcement via a social media post.
"My time in Knoxville has been amazing," wrote Warren. "I love this place and the people that I have been on this journey with the past few years."
"Being a hometown kid, playing at this university has been a dream of mine since I was little and I am beyond blessed that I have had the opportunity to fulfill that dream However, I believe I have more to prove in this chapter of my life. With that I'm being said, I will be returning for my final year of eligibility and playing one more season at Tennessee. I appreciate you all for the endless support and look forward to one more ride in Neyland Stadium."
Tennessee doesn't have a lot of depth at tight end, so this is big news for the Vols.
UT is losing Princeton Fant (out of eligibility) and Miles Campbell (transfer portal) from this past season's roster. The Vols added UC-Davis transfer McCallan Castles this last month, but they were definitely going to need another tight end if Warren didn't return.
Warren didn't put up gaudy numbers in 2022 — he caught 12 passes for 163 yards — but he did a lot of important things that don't show up in a stat sheet.
One example is his route against Clemson on the Vols' first touchdown in the Orange Bowl. Warren pulled the safety away which allowed Joe Milton to find an open throwing lane to get the ball to Bru McCoy for the touchdown.
That play happens because of Warren's knowledge of the offense. And that's something that you can't find in the transfer portal.
Warren may not have been in a lot of highlights this season, but he was an important player for Tennessee both on and off the field. Getting him back is definitely good news for the Vols.
Featured image via Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
