Tennessee freshman Emmanuel Moseley has emerged as the starting nickel cornerback for the Volunteers. The 5-foot-11 corner has made great strides since enrolling this past January, but that’s nothing new for the former Greensboro, N.C.

Moseley missed his sophomore season before returning the following season and eventually leading the Greensboro Dudley High School team to a state championship as a senior. Moseley gained interest from Vols after showcasing his speed at a camp in Knoxville last summer.

Tennessee was the only SEC program to offer the 145-pound corner a scholarship, nabbing his commitment away from Charlotte. Getting the early jump in Knoxville helped Moseley bulk up to 178 pounds, as he is aiming to reach 185. He also gained an early leg up on his fellow freshman at studying Tennessee’s defensive scheme.

His progress and work ethic has impressed coaches enough to be listed a-top the Vols’ depth chart as the starting nickel cornerback. Moseley has the speed to compete at the next level an has he work ethic to gain more size if necessary. While the Vols lack many multiple-year starters at defensive back, Moseley is a realistic option to hold onto the starting job all season.