Tennessee Football’s next breakout star is expected to emerge in the 2025 college football season. While ESPN predicts a specific player to take the spotlight, let’s dive into the top five freshmen who could make a significant impact for the Tennessee Volunteers ¹.
*Top Freshmen to Watch*
– _*George MacIntyre, Quarterback*_: Ranked eighth among the top quarterbacks, specializing in throwing in the pocket, MacIntyre has the potential to earn the backup role behind Nico Iamaleava. His talent and size (6-foot-6, 190 pounds) might convince Coach Josh Heupel to choose him over Jake Merklinger ¹.
– _*Braylon Staley, Wide Receiver*_: With limited experience last year, Staley may have an edge over his teammates. He had two receptions for 11 yards in the team’s loss to Ohio State and could see more targets from Nico Iamaleava ¹.
– _*Travis Smith Jr., Wide Receiver*_: Ranked 16th in ESPN’s top freshmen wide receivers, Smith has the opportunity to compete for a starting or backup role. With key wide receivers like Dont’e Thornton Jr., Bru McCoy, and Squirrel White gone, Smith might fill the vacant spots ¹.
– _*DaSaahn Brame, Tight End*_: As the fourth-best prospect entering college football from Kansas, Brame could be a breakout star. He needs to perform well in preseason camp to fill the backup role, especially with Miles Kitselman returning as a senior ¹.
– _*Isaiah Campbell, Defensive Lineman*_: Ranked fourth in ESPN’s top freshman defensive tackles, Campbell may see limited action but has the potential to improve the defensive line. With senior defensive linemen returning, Campbell could contribute in a backup role and gain experience ¹.
Tennessee finished last season with a 10-3 record and competed in the College Football Playoff. However, they suffered a 42-17 loss to the Ohio State Buckeyes in the first round. The team will rely on these freshmen to help them return to the playoff in the 2025 season ¹.
In other news, the Tennessee Volunteers have been busy with their spring practice, and Coach Josh Heupel has been impressed with the team’s progress. The Volunteers will look to build on their success from last season and make a deeper run in the College Football Playoff ².
As for the predicted breakout player, ESPN has made their pick, but we’ll have to wait and see if their prediction comes true. One thing is certain, though – the Tennessee Volunteers have a talented roster, and several players are poised to make a significant impact in the 2025 college football season ³.
