Vols coach Josh Heupel mentions possible new plans for WR Dont'e Thornton

The loss of Bru McCoy is one that will not be simple to replace for Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel. According to the depth chart, redshirt freshmen Kaleb Webb and Chas Nimrod are listed as co-starters this week to fill the sizeable hole left by the senior's heartbreaking injury. But according to Heupel, there could […]

Craig Smith — College Football & NFL Trending News Writer

Oct 10, 2023 11:34 AM EDT

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But according to Heupel, there could be another candidate to step up in McCoy's absence.

Heupel met with the media on Monday, and when he was asked a question about Webb or Nimrod filling in for McCoy, he intervened and responded with a third name.

"Or Dont'e (Thornton), too."

Thornton, who is listed as backup to Squirrel White in the slot on this week's depth chart, came over from Oregon as a transfer in January with a lot of hype. With a 6'5", 214-pound frame to go along with top-end speed – he claims to have been clocked at 24 mph while at Oregon – Thornton appeared to be the player who could step up and fill the role of explosive playmaker vacated with the departure of Jalin Hyatt in the NFL.

Through 5 weeks, that hasn't happened. Playing primarily in the slot, Thornton has seen action in 4 games, with only 7 catches for 89 yards to show for it. His biggest play came on a 43-yard reception in the second half against Florida.

Now, with White set to take on a bigger role in the offense, it makes sense to see what Thornton and his big frame can do on the outside.

But it's not just about size. In Heupel's offense, perimeter receivers are asked to block a lot on the edge, and McCoy was very good at it. Thornton will have to be able to show he can execute at the same or similar level.

If he can, then perhaps he can live up to the hype at the right time with the thick of the SEC schedule getting underway.