One of the Tennessee Vols’ most interesting position battles that’s still ongoing is the competition for the No. 3 wide receiver spot.

Sophomores Radarious Jackson, Joakim Dodson and Travis Smith, along with true freshmen TK Keys and Tyreek King, are all competing for playing time behind junior Mike Matthews and redshirt freshman Braylon Staley.

It’s typically tough for freshmen wide receivers to make an impact in Josh Heupel’s offense, but due to some changes this offseason, it sounds like the youngsters are picking things up quicker.

Braylon Staley says Tennessee’s offense made some changes this offseason

Staley told reporters on Monday that Tennessee made some changes to its offense this offseason, which has made it easier for the young receivers to pick up.

“There’s a lot of learning they had to do, obviously, like all of us — just with the offense we have,” said Staley of the young receivers. “But we changed the offense up a little bit, so it was kind of easier for them. But them boys are coming in the building each and every day, getting installs and stuff. They’ve been doing really good.”

It’s a subtle comment from Staley, but it’s still interesting.

Heupel is always tweaking his offense to stay ahead of opposing defensive coordinators. We saw the Vols go with more pro style looks last season — specifically with some condensed formations and heavier tight end usage. It’ll be fun to see what changes are in store for this season.

The more interesting thing is that Staley said the changes have made it easier for the young wide receivers to pick things up.

That could mean that we see players like Keys and King make an impact far earlier this fall than we expected.

Both players are viewed as high level talents. If they can quickly make an impact, it could lead to Tennessee having the best wide receiver room in the nation.