The Tennessee defense was very much up and down in 2022, but the good news is that they won’t have to replace too much going into 2023. One key starter from every level exits — edge rusher Byron Young, linebacker Jeremy Banks and safety Trevon Flowers.
Aaron Beasley and Juwan Mitchell were expected to take over at inside linebacker in 2023, but Mitchell hit the portal instead. That freed up a spot for Tennessee, and they filled it by bringing in veteran BYU transfer Keenan Pili. It was a much needed addition for the Volunteers, who have plenty of numbers now at the position but are suddenly thin on experience.