Evan and Elliott Berry enrolled at the University of Tennessee this past May, but had ties to the school their entire lives. Their father, James, was a star running back from 1978-81, leading the Vols in rushing during both the 1980 and 1981 seasons and served as a captain in 1981.

Their brother Eric, a three-time pro bowler and an all-pro for the Kansas City Chiefs, was one of the most beloved players in Tennessee’s history. From 2007-09, Berry enjoyed a decorated collegiate career as a two-time unanimous All-American, First-Team All-SEC member and Jack Tatum Trophy winner, as well as the 2008 SEC Defensive Player of the Year and the Jim Thorpe Award winner in 2009.

The Berry twins first gained the attention of Tennessee fans while their brother was still dominating at Neyland Stadium. Despite not yet playing a down of high school football, the idea of two members of the Berry family sharing the field for the Vols seemed like a dream. The expectations remain high for both players as they embark on their collegiate careers. Though they may not have garnered the national attention of several freshmen teammates, the Berrys may be the most sentimental commitments of Tennessee’s 2014 class.

They may not be defensive starters just yet, but both players are expected to be key pieces moving forward. Elliott is listed as a linebacker while Evan, like his older brother, will play safety and has been given co-kick returning duties heading into Tennessee’s opener. It will be a difficult task to shed the moniker of “Eric Berry’s brothers”, but the Berrys have the raw talent to live up to expectations, if they can reach their full potential. Unlike Eric, Evan and Elliott won’t need to carry as much of a load as freshmen and should benefit from practices to continue their progress moving forward. Their brother’s shoes will be tough to fill, but fans should expect great things from the two youngest members of Tennessee football’s favorite family.