KNOXVILLE— The first official practice of the Butch Jones era is in the books. Media members are only allowed to view the individual portions of practice, with team segments closed to the media. Tennessee went through group drills for about an hour and a half, and in that time several players stood out.

Peterman and Worley split first team reps.
Photo by Reed Carringer

Brent Brewer: A former safety, Brewer was moved to weak side linebacker before practice. He said of the position move, “Once they told me (about the switch) I called my family. I was happy and I love it.” I asked Brewer about what specific skills he possesses which will translate well to the linebacker position, “I’m a physical person, I ‘m fast, I like the physical play down there. I think it will be pretty easy just adjusting.”  He looked relatively at home working out with the linebackers, and his speed at the position should help the Vol defense keep runners from getting into the secondary.

Brewer was also asked about the difference in the defense this year, “The defense is a lot simpler, everything last year was too much thinking. You can’t play when you’re thinking so much. We get to go out there and play fast. Coach (Jancek) is a lot more positive (than Sunseri), he wants you to do your best and he treats you like his own son. He calls you during off days, and texts you.”

Nathan Peterman: The Tennessee redshirt freshman showed off his arm in individual drills and proved he is extremely accurate when throwing the ball down the field. Of the Vols QBs, Peterman undoubtably has the strongest arm. Upon initial impression, he has room to improve in the short and intermediate routes, and Worley has the advantage there. He did throw the ball well on the move and his footwork is impressive. While he is a pocket-passer first and foremost, it was clear he has the athleticism needed to make plays with his legs if called upon. Peterman and Worley split first team reps throughout practice.

Peterman was asked if he considers himself a dual threat quarterback or a pocket passer, “More of a passer, but I would hope I have the ability to get myself out of trouble and pickup a first down here or there if we need to. If we’re playing a man defense and they’re dropping out, I can use my legs to make a play.”

Riyahd Jones: The JUCO defensive back showed good closing speed and solid footwork, and he looks like he’ll see a ton of action this season.

As far as other notes and quotes, Jaques Smith and LaTroy Lewis will be playing Tennessee’s hybrid lineman/linebacker Leo position. We asked Lewis how that position was different from playing traditional linebacker or end. “It’s a mix. It’s the best of both worlds. You play end, but you get flexibility with the drops. You still have to rush contain, and be a factor in the run game.” He also said the position will be expected to cover running backs in the flats.

More coming from practice in the coming days.