Tennessee Football: Way-too-early 2022 depth chart projection
By Kathryn Rose
Quarterback
Starter: Hendon Hooker (super senior)
Backup: Joe Milton (redshirt senior)
Third-string and below: Tayven Jackson (freshman), Navy Shuler (redshirt sophomore)
The biggest get for Tennessee this offseason was Hendon Hooker coming back for a last dance. There is no quarterback on this roster who is as perfect of a fit as Hooker is. He’s got a great combination of speed and throwing accuracy that makes him lethal in this hyper-aggressive offense.
Joe Milton comes back for another year, but unlike last season, he’s the clear backup. Milton’s arm strength is unquestioned, but he’s inconsistent beyond repair at this point. Launching the ball into space a bunch of times in the first half against Pitt showed why he’s not starter material.
Tayven Jackson is coach Josh Heupel’s first real quarterback recruit. He’s a quarterback that needs to fill out his 6-4 frame, but the kid can move like the wind when he scrambles. Jackson should be in a good position to start next year if he can keep showing that potential.
Navy Shuler is the son of former Vol quarterback Heath Shuler, and comes in after transferring from Appalachian State. The younger Shuler is a 6-0, 200-pound quarterback who is there mostly to fulfill a dream, rather than being a serious playing time contender.