If history is any indication, this former Tennessee Vols player will have a huge NFL career
There were a lot of warning signs that former Tennessee Vols head coach Butch Jones wasn't who he claimed to be. One of the biggest warning signs was his handling of JJ Watt at Central Michigan. Jones played Watt at tight end at Central Michigan under Jones. Unsurprisingly, Jones even tried to move the five-time […]
There were a lot of warning signs that former Tennessee Vols head coach Butch Jones wasn't who he claimed to be.
One of the biggest warning signs was his handling of JJ Watt at Central Michigan.
Jones played Watt at tight end at Central Michigan under Jones. Unsurprisingly, Jones even tried to move the five-time Pro-Bowl defensive end to offensive tackle at one point.
Watt knew this was a mistake and opted to transfer to Wisconsin and walk on to the team. He just wanted the chance to play defense because he knew that's where he could shine. 92 career sacks later, I'd say he made the right decision.
Former Vols running back Jalen Hurd made a similar decision. He wanted to be used in ways that better utilized his skill set at Tennessee — and in ways that would prolong his career.
Long story short, Jones made some promises to Hurd after the 2015 season, but he didn't deliver on those promises in 2016. Hurd ended up leaving the team and transferring to Baylor where he decided to reinvent himself as a wide receiver.
Again, he obviously made the right decision.
After just one season of playing wide receiver, Hurd was drafted in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft by the San Francisco 49ers.
In one season with the Bears, Hurd caught 69 passes for 946 yards and four touchdowns. He also rushed 48 times for 209 yards and three touchdowns.
This is how Hurd wanted to be utilized by Jones at Tennessee. This is what he had in mind. And he was clearly correct.
If Hurd had another year in this type of system, he probably would've been a first or second round selection.
Hurd and Watt probably have some great stories, and similar experiences, they should share with each other about Butch Jones and his inability to identify talent.
Maybe someday the two of them will get to reminisce. What I wouldn't give to be a fly on the fall if that conversation ever happened.
Featured image via Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
