Tennessee received some tough news recently — as top receiver Josh Malone decided to leave Knoxville and enter the 2017 NFL Draft.

Malone had a career year leading the Vols in catches (50), receiving yards (972), yards per catch (19.4) and receiving touchdowns (11) this past season. He was the unquestioned top target of senior signal-caller Joshua Dobbs.

He spoke to Rivals.com about why did indeed want to turn pro — despite not being a surefire first-day draft selection.

Much of Malone’s trepidation stems from the uncertainty at quarterback this upcoming year for Tennessee. With Dobbs graduating, the Vols will be breaking in a new signal-caller — likely Quinten Dormady, Sheriron Jones, or Jarrett Guarantano.

Growing pains will inevitably exist for the new starter, and it’s clear Malone would rather avoid these potential pitfalls.