Tennessee RB DeSean Bishop could make a group of people beyond Vol fans very happy in 2026
The Vols’ starting running back could be in for a big season this fall, and fantasy players could reap the benefits.
The Tennessee Vols’ offense could be primed for another big season in 2026 after a bit of a breakout in 2025 with Joey Aguilar under center. While Tennessee will be relying on either redshirt freshman George MacIntyre or true freshman Faizon Brandon this fall, the Vols have one of the best wide receiver trios in the SEC in Braylon Staley, Mike Matthews and TK Keys, along with tight end Ethan Davis.
But, as is often the case, Josh Heupel’s backfield isn’t getting enough credit. Well, at least from most outlets. Veteran 1000-yard back DeSean Bishop is back to lead the ground attack. Bishop has been largely absent from most top 10 running back lists by pundits and talking heads entering 2026.
However, one outlet noted Bishop’s potential production. Pro Football Network put out their top 10 list of college fantasy football players for 2026, and Bishop checked in at No. 8 overall and the No. 6 running back.
Tennessee RB DeSean Bishop ranked top 10 college fantasy football player by Pro Football Network
We’ve certainly seen what Heupel can do when he gets a talented running back in his system. Dylan Sampson left Tennessee program records in his wake in 2024, leading the SEC in rushing yards (1491) and rushing touchdowns (22), stats that are pretty vital in any fantasy football format or league.
Bishop certainly had a springboard towards a big 2026 last year for the Vols. He rushed for 1076 yards with 15 rushing scores. With a young quarterback getting his feet wet, it’s certainly possible that Heupel elects to lean a bit more on the ground, and Bishop could be primed to deliver if that’s the case.
Bishop comes into 2026 looking the part, having put on an even more muscular frame this offseason under new strength and conditioning coach Derek Owings program. As such, the stars could be aligned for Bishop to have a season to remember for Vol fans — and college fantasy football players — this fall.
