KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — In order for Tennessee to make an Atlanta SEC East championship run in 2016, some areas need to be addressed and proven on the field this fall.

Whether it’s the practice field or at Neyland Stadium on game day, here are five players who need to address areas of concern to better Team 120.

Josh Malone, WR: Malone looked like an SEC-type receiver as the 2015 season went along. The highly-touted recruit answered the call – when needed – after Preston Williams, Von Pearson, Marquez North and others missed time at various points.

Now the junior wide receiver can compliment a plethora of core receivers to keep defenses off balance. Over the past two seasons, Malone has reeled in 54 receptions for 636 yards and has caught 3 TDs.

Malone has an opportunity to emerge from a crowded field and become the go-to target for Joshua Dobbs.

Drew Richmond, OL: Richmond spent the 2015 season redshirting after getting accumulated to the college game. The result could provide dividends in 2016.

Butch Jones flipped the the prized left tackle on signing day 2015 from Ole Miss, and now Jones needs Richmond to at least provide efficient depth, if not step into the starting left tackle role.

A good fall camp and early part of the season could lead to a more stable line surrounding the most important position of the unit. Richmond could also fill in at a guard position if necessary.

Jonathan Kongbo, DL: There’s no question that Kongbo passes the eye test to play in the SEC, especially after the first few days of fall camp in shorts. The only question that remains is how big will the learning curve be for the former JUCO star?

At this level, can Kongbo play both defensive end and defensive tackle at ease? Having him provide another element of backfield havoc can go along way for Tennessee’s defense to live up to the Orange Swarm mantra.

Joshua Dobbs, QB: It’s hard to place Dobbs on a list of most to prove. The senior quarterback has proven so much already.

But there are strides to be made in the passing game, and in order for this season to be as special as Tennessee hopes, Dobbs must take that final step in his development.

Tennessee has to complete more than 5 passes longer than 40 yards in 2016. The Vols had just 16 completions longer than 30 yards. Only three SEC teams had fewer.

No one questions Dobbs’ leadership or running ability, but he needs to prove he can stretch the field.

Alvin Kamara, RB: Kamara is another proven commodity with still more to prove.

His inclusion is more of a reflection in how the talented former Alabama running back is, and how many ways he can be used.

He’s talented enough to catch the ball in open space and even run through you on certain run plays. Kamara scored 10 touchdowns last season. He had 107 carries and 34 receptions last season. Expect both totals to rise in 2016 as Tennessee continues to find ways to get him the ball.

Part of Run CMG, Kamara can be a valuable piece to a special run for Tennessee in 2016.