KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — It’s part of the process.

Wide receiver Marquez Callaway understood his role of waiting and learning in Butch Jones’ program as a freshman in 2016.

“It was different not coming and playing, but that’s part of the process,” Callaway said during the first week of spring practices heading into his sophomore season. “I learned a lot, and I’m thankful for that come this year and to try to show what I can do.”

Callaway’s patience is an example of Jones finally reaching a point where he can build quality depth even though the next-man-up mantra has been a reality.

The reality in 2017 is Tennessee needs Callaway.

Josh Malone, the main source of production from the wide receivers in 2016, declared for the NFL Draft a year early. His departure opens an opportunity for Callaway and other receivers who came into the program a season ago.

“Looking up at (Josh) Malone and Jauan (Jennings), all the older guys, they all set a high standard,” Callaway said. “Looking up to them last year when I was just under their footsteps, they kind of carried me, Latrell (Williams), Tyler (Byrd) and Brandon (Johnson).”

Jones is just now able to have players come into the program and take an approach of waiting, learning, then playing their part. The fifth-year head coach inherited a depleted roster, certainly from a talent standpoint, and has had to replenish and upgrade each year.

Callaway, 6-2, 190 pounds, played in six games as a freshman in 2016, making his debut at South Carolina on Oct. 29.

All of his statistics came in Tennessee’s homecoming game against Tennessee Tech. He reeled in his only catch of the season, for 13 yards. He also returned two punts for 114 yards that included a 62-yard return for a touchdown. He became the first Tennessee freshman to return a punt for a touchdown since Devaun Swafford blocked a punt for a score against Georgia in Jones’ first season of 2013.

His style and versatility will help him see the field more in 2017, on offense and special teams.

“Coach (Jones) is going to put the best person back there (punt returner), so we’re just going to come out here and compete, and whoever it goes to, it goes to,” Callaway said.

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The 4-star (No. 3 athlete, No. 12 prospect in Georgia by 247Sports) embraced looking up to guys like Malone, but he now wants to step in and make a name for himself. “This year I’m going to try to show what I can do,” he said.

“I would try not to compare myself (to Malone) because I’m trying to make a name for myself, but overall I’m looking up to Malone.”

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Callaway’s leadership qualities are also evident. He wants to help others while at the same time making himself a better player.

“Cam Sutton and Alvin (Kamara), I always asked them questions, about tips and stuff,” he said. “Hopefully I can take those tips not only for me, but I can help out some of the other players, too.”