Former Tennessee Vols running back Jaylen Wright is looking to take a step forward in his third season with the Miami Dolphins.

Wright, a fourth round pick by the Dolphins in 2024, has mostly played in a backup role during his first two seasons in Miami, and he’s been moderately productive.

The former Vol has rushed for 537 yards and two touchdowns in his first 25 career NFL games.

Dolphins starting running back De’Von Achane signed a four-year extension earlier this offseason, so Wright will once again begin the season in a backup role this fall.

Jaylen Wright discusses how often he speaks with former Vols teammates

Wright, who played at Tennessee from 2021 to 2023, joined WNML’s SportsTalk this week and was asked about how often he speaks with his former UT teammates and whether he’s returned to Knoxville since leaving early for the NFL.

The North Carolina native noted that he hasn’t been back to Tennessee since he left, but he’s hoping to change that.

“I haven’t actually been back since I left,” said Wright. “Eventually, yes, I definitely want to come back. I’ll come back — whether it’s for a game or a spring game or just to say what’s up at practice. I definitely want to come back, and I definitely miss it out there in Knoxville.”

Wright also shared that he still keeps in close touch with several of his former Vols teammates, including former Tennessee wide receiver Jalin Hyatt, who currently plays for the New York Giants.

“Jabari Small, I’m still connected with him and talk to him all the time,” said Wright. “I talk to Jalin Hyatt. That’s like my right-hand man. I talk to him every day… Kamal Hadden, I keep in contact with all of those boys. One day I really want to get the chance to link up with everybody else. Just link up and have a good time, and just reflect on our memories, and just bring back the old days.”

It can be tough to keep up with former teammates while being an active NFL player, but it’s cool to see that Wright is finding time to connect with his brothers for life.