Six Volunteers from Tennessee Are Invited to the 2025 NFL Combine

The University of Tennessee Volunteers football program has long been a prominent force in college football, and the 2025 NFL Combine invitation list underscores that tradition. Six players from Tennessee have been selected to attend the prestigious event, an opportunity that reflects the strength, talent, and future prospects of these athletes as they prepare for the next step in their careers: the NFL. The NFL Combine is a critical event in the football world, allowing college athletes to showcase their skills and impress scouts, coaches, and team executives. It is an essential stepping stone for athletes hoping to be selected in the upcoming NFL Draft.

This article delves into the significance of the six Tennessee players invited to the 2025 NFL Combine, exploring their paths to this point, what they bring to the table, and how their invitations reflect the growing strength of the Tennessee football program under head coach Josh Heupel. With several players poised to make their mark on the professional stage, this year’s group from Tennessee highlights the program’s resurgence and the increasing interest from NFL scouts in Volunteer talent.

The Tennessee Volunteers and the NFL Draft Pipeline

Tennessee’s football program has a rich history of sending players to the NFL, with notable names like Reggie White, Peyton Manning, and Jason Witten among its alumni. The university has consistently produced high-level talent, but in recent years, there has been a concerted effort to elevate the program’s profile even further. Under head coach Josh Heupel, Tennessee has made tremendous strides in terms of recruiting, player development, and on-field performance. Heupel’s up-tempo offense, which has garnered national attention for its explosive playmaking, has also contributed to raising the profile of individual players.

The success of Tennessee’s football program is now reflected in the number of Vols invited to the 2025 NFL Combine. These six athletes represent the fruits of Tennessee’s renewed commitment to excellence, both in player development and overall program success. The Combine serves as a high-stakes audition for players hoping to be drafted into the NFL, and Tennessee’s strong presence is a testament to the upward trajectory of the program.

Who Are the Six Volunteers Invited to the 2025 NFL Combine?

The six players invited to the 2025 NFL Combine from Tennessee come from various positions, each contributing to the team’s success in different ways. From key offensive weapons to stalwart defenders, these players have been instrumental in Tennessee’s recent rise. Let’s take a closer look at the six players, what they’ve accomplished during their time at Tennessee, and why they’re being considered top prospects for the next level.

1. Joe Milton III – Quarterback

One of the most exciting players on Tennessee’s roster in recent years, Joe Milton III is a quarterback with an immense physical profile. Standing at 6’5” and possessing a cannon of an arm, Milton has the tools to be an NFL prospect. After starting his college career at Michigan, Milton transferred to Tennessee, where he served as the backup to Hendon Hooker before becoming the starting quarterback in his final season.

Milton’s combination of size, strength, and arm talent caught the attention of scouts throughout the season. While he had a few inconsistent performances, his ability to make jaw-dropping throws with velocity and precision—combined with his leadership in some big games—made him a viable candidate for the NFL. At the Combine, Milton will need to show that he can consistently execute and adapt his raw talent to the next level.

2. Byron Young – Edge Rusher

Defensively, Byron Young has been one of the most disruptive players in the SEC. A powerful edge rusher with exceptional burst off the line of scrimmage, Young’s ability to pressure quarterbacks and stop the run made him one of Tennessee’s defensive anchors. His relentless motor and ability to generate sacks put him on the radar of NFL scouts looking for a high-impact player on the defensive line.

At the Combine, Young will be under the microscope as he tries to showcase his quickness, strength, and pass-rushing abilities in drills. His performances during his time at Tennessee make him an intriguing prospect with considerable upside, and teams looking to bolster their pass-rush units will likely show strong interest in Young.

3. Jalin Hyatt – Wide Receiver

Wide receiver Jalin Hyatt had a breakout season that made him one of the most dangerous playmakers in the country. Hyatt was a key part of Tennessee’s high-powered offense and an explosive deep threat. He had standout performances, including a remarkable game against Alabama, where he scored five touchdowns. Hyatt’s speed, separation ability, and playmaking skills make him an enticing prospect for teams in need of a dynamic wide receiver.

At the NFL Combine, Hyatt’s performance in the 40-yard dash and other agility drills will be critical to proving he has the elite speed to make an immediate impact at the next level. His hands and route running will also be under intense scrutiny as scouts look for a wide receiver who can contribute immediately in the NFL.

4. Darnell Wright – Offensive Tackle

Darnell Wright is a highly skilled offensive tackle with the size and strength to play at the next level. At 6’6” and over 330 pounds, Wright has the physical attributes that NFL scouts covet. His combination of strength, length, and athleticism allowed him to be a dominant force along the offensive line, both in pass protection and in the running game.

Wright’s stock has continued to rise, especially after a standout season protecting Tennessee’s quarterbacks. At the Combine, Wright will be evaluated on his agility, technique, and ability to handle top-tier competition. His performance could see him rise up the draft boards, with teams looking for a dominant offensive lineman who can anchor their line for years to come.

5. Tennessee Defensive Back – Kamal Hadden

Kamal Hadden, a standout defensive back for the Volunteers, has been a key figure in Tennessee’s secondary. A cornerback with great instincts, Hadden’s ability to track the ball and make plays in critical moments set him apart as a rising star. His combination of size and agility allows him to cover a wide range of receivers, and he has shown an impressive ability to read offenses and create turnovers.

At the NFL Combine, Hadden will need to prove his ability to compete against some of the top wide receivers in the country. His skills in press coverage and ball skills will be evaluated thoroughly, as teams look for a cornerback who can step into a starting role.

6. Cedric Tillman – Wide Receiver

Cedric Tillman is another key offensive weapon who has impressed scouts with his size, route running, and ability to make plays down the field. Tillman had a strong career at Tennessee, particularly as a reliable target in the passing game. He was a key part of the Volunteers’ offense, often making big catches in clutch moments. Standing at 6’3” and with a physical style of play, Tillman is a big-bodied wide receiver who could translate well to the NFL.

Tillman will need to demonstrate his quickness, separation ability, and consistency at the Combine, where he will compete against some of the best wide receivers in the country. His ball tracking and ability to make catches in tight coverage will be areas to watch during drills.

Why the NFL Combine is So Important

The NFL Combine is one of the most anticipated events in the football world, as it provides a first look at some of the most promising college prospects ahead of the NFL Draft. For the players, it’s an opportunity to showcase their athleticism, technical skills, and mental fortitude in front of an array of NFL teams. It’s a critical moment where a player’s career trajectory can change.

The NFL Combine typically takes place in Indianapolis, Indiana, where players go through a series of physical tests (such as the 40-yard dash, vertical jump, bench press, and agility drills) as well as on-field interviews with coaches and scouts. This process is crucial for players hoping to elevate their stock in the draft, as it’s not only about raw talent but also about showcasing their ability to adapt and thrive under pressure.

For the six Tennessee players invited to the 2025 NFL Combine, this is a golden opportunity to prove themselves and solidify their places in the NFL Draft. With standout performances, any of them could see their stock rise, cementing their status as future NFL contributors.