Tennessee linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin will be asked to take on an expanded role for the second consecutive season. In 2014, Reeves-Maybin became a starting outside linebacker for the Vols after spending the majority of his true freshman season on special teams.

The sophomore answered the call by recording a team-best 101 tackles, including 11 for loss, two sacks, one interception and two fumble recoveries. In 2015, Reeves-Maybin will not only be asked to duplicate his success, but also lead a young Tennessee linebacker group.

With A.J. Johnson’s departure and Curt Maggitt spending much of his time at defensive end, Reeves-Maybin is the most seasoned linebacker returning for the Vols next season.

The former two-way athlete has done everything his coaches have asked of him since enrolling in 2013. As a freshman, Reeves-Maybin led the Vols special teams with 11 tackles, recording at least one in six consecutive games. After being named a starter this offseason, the sophomore averaged 7.8 tackles per game and played in all 13 games for Tennessee.

Reeves-Maybin is a rising star that may have gone unnoticed playing alongside Johnson last season. But the Clarksville, Tenn., native has the talent to make a major impact as a veteran leader on Tennessee’s young defense in 2015.

While Johnson’s replacement at middle linebacker remains uncertain — even after the senior missed his final three games due to a suspension — Reeves-Maybin provides a solid answer at outside linebacker that will be key to the Vols’ continued success on defense. Reeves-Maybin recorded a career-best 13 tackles in the senior’s absence during Tennessee’s TaxSlayer Bowl victory against Iowa.

Perhaps the win was a sign of things to come for the rising junior in 2015. Reeves-Maybin has the potential to see another breakout season and be considered among the SEC’s best linebackers next season.