**KNOXVILLE, Tenn.** — The Tennessee Volunteers are in full swing during spring practice, gearing up for what promises to be another grueling SEC schedule in 2025. Head coach **Josh Heupel**, mic’d up during practice this week, is focused on building momentum after the program’s historic College Football Playoff appearance last season—even if it ended in a tough loss to eventual national champion Ohio State.
**Key Storylines:**
– **Rickey Gibson’s Return**: Starting cornerback **Rickey Gibson**, who briefly entered the transfer portal, is back on the roster and practicing with the team, providing a boost to the defense.
– **High Expectations**: With a projected win total of **9.5 games** (per FanDuel) and one of the nation’s most talented returning quarterbacks, the Vols are aiming for another playoff run in 2025.
– **Wide Receiver Shakeup**: Tennessee’s receiving corps has undergone significant changes, losing multiple players to the transfer portal and the NFL Draft. But Heupel is optimistic about the new group, praising their physicality, intelligence, and ability to grasp the offense quickly.
**Heupel on the WR Room:**
“Opportunity exists, and I really like this group,” Heupel said after Friday’s practice. “They’re big, long, athletic, and really intelligent football players. They’ve grasped what we’ve given them so far in a really good way. They made some plays today, and I’m excited about where they’re headed.”
**What’s Next:**
As the Vols navigate their fifth season under Heupel, the focus is on developing new talent and answering key roster questions. With a mix of returning stars and fresh faces, Tennessee is determined to build on last year’s success and make another push for postseason glory.
Spring practice continues as the Vols prepare for their annual **Orange & White Game** on **April 12**, giving fans a first look at the 2025 squad.
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