Tennessee’s 25 Most Important Players for 2025: No. 19 emerges as a key contributor in the Vols’ championship pursuit.

As the Tennessee Volunteers gear up for a pivotal 2025 season under Coach Josh Heupel, every player on the roster matters—but some carry more weight than others. Enter No. 19, a crucial piece of the Volunteers’ championship puzzle whose role in the upcoming year can’t be overstated.

Let’s dive deep into who No. 19 is, why he’s so vital, and how he fits into Tennessee’s broader roadmap for success.

Who Is Tennessee’s No. 19?

Tennessee’s No. 19 is David Sanders Jr., a freshman offensive tackle hailing from Charlotte, North Carolina. A 5-star recruit and elite offensive line prospect, Sanders entered the program in 2025 with sky-high expectations. Standing 6’6″ and 290 lbs, he’s already turning heads in practice sessions and meetings, signaling an impact far greater than a typical freshman.

Draft buzz around Sanders started early, and with good reason. He was one of the top tackle recruit nationwide in the 2025 class and had an exceptional high school career with no allowed sacks, earning Gatorade North Carolina Player of the Year honors.

Freshman Start, Veteran Impact

It’s rare to see a freshman take over an offensive line position right away, especially as a tackle—one of the most physically and mentally demanding roles. That’s part of what makes Sanders’ emergence so significant:

• Immediate Trust: Coach Heupel and offensive line coach David Reaves have openly praised Sanders’ readiness, hinting he’ll start at right tackle almost right away.

• Athleticism & Technique: Sanders combines natural size with surprising mobility—an elite frame matched with nimble footwork and pass sets more typical of experienced college linemen.

• Work Ethic & Maturity: Player profiles highlight his relentless study habits and maturity beyond his years. Reports from spring practice scenes describe him as calm, focused, and unphased by the college game’s speed.

Tennessee’s Offense: How Sanders Fits In

Tennessee led the SEC in rushing yards per game in 2024—and that success hinges on the trenches. With Sanders added to an already solid offensive line, here’s why he’s so vital:

1. Revving the Run Game:
   Opening rushing lanes is still Heupel’s top priority. Sanders’ mix of strength and agility helps maintain that identity in 2025, ensuring the Vols can consistently gain ground on the ground.

2. Protecting the Quarterback:
   With quarterback Nico Iamaleava gone and a competition between Jake Merklinger and George MacIntyre underway, stability upfront is critical. Sanders fortifies the pocket, giving whoever wins the QB battle time to read defenses and make plays.

3. Offensive Longevity:
   Offensive linemen rarely get credit, but Tennessee’s identity relies heavily on their performance. Sanders’ consistent play in the trenches provides a dependable spine for a dynamic offense.

The Bigger Picture: Tennessee’s Offensive Line in 2025

Sanders isn’t the only standout on the line. The 2025 O-line unit includes a mix of veterans and young stars:

• Cooper Mays (C) – A steady center with NFL potential.

• Max Anderson & Ayden Bussell (guards) – Highly touted freshman and sophomore with size and technique.

• John Campbell Jr. (LT) – Senior leader bringing tutelage and experience.

• David Sanders Jr. (RT) – The freshest yet possibly most impactful newcomer

With continuity and youth blended, Tennessee projects to have one of the SEC’s most dependable offensive lines—essential for both offensive balance and durability.

Why No. 19 Is a “Must-Watch” Player

• Long-Term Upside:
  Sanders isn’t a one-year wonder. As a freshman starter, he has the potential to dominate SEC defenses over the next three years and emerge as a first-round NFL draft candidate.

• Recruiting Magnet:
  His presence underscores Tennessee’s ability to develop top-tier line talent. Success builds momentum in recruiting, drawing other prized O-linemen to campus.

• Leadership Potential:
  Even as a freshman, Sanders’ maturity has stood out. He’s already exhibited traits expected of a team leader—even among upperclassmen.

• Foundation for the Future:
  Strong offensive lines provide the backbone of championship teams. Sanders’ inclusion gives the Vols institutional consistency and identity.

Whats at Stake in 2025

With Sanders locked in as a key lineman, Tennessee aims to:

• Maintain runaway ground game dominance.

• Win the trenches against SEC powerhouses like Georgia, Alabama, and Texas.

• Support whichever QB takes the reins with better pass protection.

• Establish a template of gritty, physical football that attracts recruits and sustains success.

No. 19 may not show up in highlight reels, but his impact underpins everything Tennessee wants to achieve.

Challenges Ahead

Expectations can be burdensome—but Sanders has attributes to withstand the pressure:

1. Adjustment Curve:
   SEC edge rushers are faster and more powerful than high school. Sanders’ technique and coaching must be sharp to stay ahead.

2. Durability:
   Extended SEC seasons mean grueling snap counts. Conditioning is critical to maintain performance from game one through bowls.

3. Mental Readiness:
   From complex blitzes to stunts and checks, playing tackle involves mental agility. Earned praise around his intelligence is encouraging.

What Tennessee Fans Should Watch

• Spring and Fall Performance:
  Does Sanders protect the QB pocket and open running lanes consistently? Early-season success will be a good gauge.

• Quarterback Play:
  How does Tennessee’s new line, anchored by Sanders, influence the QB play? Improved pocket time or rushing lanes would validate his impact.

• Recruiting Buzz:
  Will more five-star linemen commit when they see Sanders’ growth? His presence might spark a recruiting wave.

• NFL Draft Reports:
  As NFL evaluators visit campus, Sanders’ freshman tape could begin generating buzz for 2028 or 2029 draft.

Voices from the Field

Coaches’ Praise:
Head Coach Josh Heupel has called Sanders “ahead of schedule” for a freshman tackle—a high compliment in a program prioritizing physical readiness.

Teammates’ Admiration:
Veteran O-lineman John Campbell Jr. has reportedly praised Sanders as “one of the calmest players” under pressure—testament to his mental makeup.

Fan Buzz:
Social platforms are lighting up with comments like “Vols won the offseason line battle” and “No. 19 changing the game quietly.” Not every key player gets cheers—but that doesn’t mean they’re any less important.

Tennessee 2025 Outlook with Sanders in the Mix

Forecasting Tennessee’s season:

• Offensive balance remains top‑tier, even with quarterback uncertainty.

• Run game thrives, continuing their SEC dominance.

• Pass protection steadies, giving depth QBs confidence.

• Recruiting and continuity increase, shaping momentum for years to come.

If Tennessee wins the SEC or reaches the CFP, it will be due in large part to dominance across the trenches—and that starts with No. 19.

In a list of 25 influential Vols, No. 19, David Sanders Jr., stands out not despite his fresh-faced status, but because of it. A 5-star recruit, immediate starter, and vocal leader on the line, he symbolizes Tennessee’s future. If healthy and supported, he could anchor some of the best offensive lines in school history—and propel the Vols into championship contention.

Fans should check his name often this season, because while stats don’t always reflect a lineman’s impact, Tennessee’s success surely will.