Tennessee Vols Reportedly Eyeing Veteran Quarterback for 2024 Season: What This Means for the Program
As the 2023 college football season draws to a close, the Tennessee Volunteers are already making waves in the offseason with reports suggesting they are eyeing a veteran quarterback for the upcoming 2024 campaign. This news comes at a time when the program is looking to build on its successes under head coach Josh Heupel while addressing some lingering questions at the quarterback position.
The Search for Stability at Quarterback
Tennessee’s quarterback situation in recent years has been a bit of a rollercoaster. After the departure of star signal-caller Hendon Hooker to the NFL, the Vols have experimented with several options under center, including Joe Milton, who took over the starting role. While Milton has shown flashes of impressive arm strength and athleticism, questions about consistency and decision-making have persisted.
For the Vols to remain competitive in the SEC, which boasts some of the toughest defenses in the nation, having a steady and reliable quarterback is paramount. With 2024 just around the corner, Tennessee seems to be prioritizing stability at the most important position on the field—something that has been elusive since Hooker’s departure.
The Veteran Quarterback Option
Reports have emerged suggesting that the Vols are considering bringing in a veteran quarterback for 2024, possibly through the transfer portal. A veteran signal-caller could provide the experience and leadership that the team needs to maintain its upward trajectory in the highly competitive SEC.
The transfer portal has become a crucial tool for college programs in recent years, allowing them to fill immediate needs with proven players. In the case of Tennessee, a veteran quarterback could offer both stability and a proven track record, potentially elevating the offense in ways that a younger or less experienced player might not be able to.
Who Could Be on Tennessee’s Radar?
Though no specific names have been confirmed, there are several quarterbacks who could fit the bill as a veteran option for the Vols. Some potential candidates could include:
- Tyler Van Dyke (Miami): The senior quarterback from Miami has shown impressive skills in his career, and his experience in a power conference like the ACC could make him a strong fit for Tennessee’s system.
- Sam Hartman (Notre Dame): Hartman is another seasoned quarterback who has shown success in a major program, and a move to the SEC could give him the opportunity to compete at an even higher level.
- Hudson Card (Purdue): With starting experience at Texas and now at Purdue, Card could be a dynamic option for a team like Tennessee looking to add depth and leadership at the position.
What This Means for Joe Milton
For current starter Joe Milton, the potential addition of a veteran quarterback could add pressure but also provide an opportunity for growth. Milton, who has had a mixed tenure as Tennessee’s starter, would have to continue to prove that he is the long-term answer for the Vols. While he has the physical tools, his ability to stay consistent and improve his decision-making will be crucial in the coming months.
If the Vols do decide to add a veteran, it could spark a quarterback competition in spring practices. This would give Milton a chance to prove he is the guy for 2024, but it would also provide Tennessee with a backup plan if he struggles to meet expectations.
Why This Makes Sense for Tennessee
Tennessee’s window to compete for an SEC title is wide open. With a high-powered offense built on the up-tempo system of head coach Josh Heupel, the Vols have the tools to challenge the likes of Georgia, Alabama, and LSU. However, without steady play from the quarterback position, all the other pieces of the offense, from the skilled playmakers to the offensive line, are rendered less effective.
By bringing in a veteran quarterback, Tennessee could ensure they’re not just relying on hope and potential, but on proven leadership to guide the team in 2024. The SEC is notorious for its depth, and having a steady hand under center could make the difference between a strong season and falling short of expectations.
The Road Ahead
As Tennessee continues to monitor the transfer portal and make decisions about the quarterback position, fans are understandably excited about what the future holds. The Vols have proven they can compete at a high level, and securing a veteran signal-caller would only make that future brighter. With a promising recruiting class on the way and an experienced coaching staff, Tennessee’s hopes for 2024 could hinge on finding the right quarterback to lead them to new heights.
As the offseason unfolds, expect more rumors and reports to surface, but one thing seems clear: Tennessee is not content to sit on its laurels. The Vols are actively looking to strengthen their roster, and the quarterback position remains at the forefront of their efforts.