Tennessee running backs trying to make most of opportunity this spring

Tennessee running back Dylan Sampson is poised to take over the role of RB1 for the Vols after being a part of the rotation the last two years with Jabari Small and Jaylen Wright, who might be the first running back taken in the draft.

Sampson, who has been a vocal leader since his arrival, is leading a young group of backs and likes what he has seen from guys like DeSean Bishop and and Kalifa Keith. He’s the old guy in the room now and is carrying himself like it with new Tennessee running backs coach Da’Rail Sims.  

“Being intentional in offseason training,” the junior said. “I think that’s a big portion of it – getting my body in the best shape and condition that I can get in to be able to take on whatever work load they need me to. Just having good practice habits. Trusting the process that they will get me ready.”

As for Keith, the opportunities have grown for him this spring with the injury to Cam Seldon. Keith feels like his growth at the position this spring has been big in some critical innings.

“When Cam went down, it hurt the running back room a lot. He’s a great player and I still talk to him to keep him motivated and seeing where his head is at,” the sophomore said. “Me and DeSean [Bishop] kind of had to move up and take on a bigger role. It’s nothing we can’t handle. I feel like we have been preparing for it. We just have to continue to work.”