The Tennessee Volunteers have never started a true freshman at tight end in a season opener. Ethan Wolf will make history when he takes the field Sunday against Utah State as Tennessee’s starter. The 6-foot-6, 248-pound Ohio native was a three-star prospect for the 2014 recruiting class and the No. 18 tight end, according to 247 Sports. That’s a far cry from fellow freshman Daniel Helm, a four-star player that ranked No. 5 among tight ends. But where Helm holds an advantage in speed, Wolf has an edge in size and has the tools to excel at the tight end position early.

While Wolf already faces high expectations, he may eventually draw comparisons to the greatest tight end in Tennessee’s history. Wolf modeled his game after former Vols and current Dallas Cowboys star Jason Witten, who he met after enrolling early this past January. He called the experience a “dream” and incredibly beneficial.

“I grew up watching Jason play, and he came over here and worked out with us,” Wolf told Wes Rucker of GoVols247. “He inspired me as a tight end, so I figured I’d honor him by wearing his jersey number that he wears in the NFL. Unfortunately I couldn’t get No. 1 because Jalen’s got it, but I’m proud to wear No. 82.

Wolf is one of several first-year players expected to get solid playing time in Tennessee’s home opener. However, he is just one of two offensive players listed a-top the depth chart for their position, the other being offensive guard Jashon Roberton. With several freshmen skill players garnering hype, its Wolf that may make the biggest impact early.

Tennessee’s offense will rely heavily on its tight end this season. Justin Worley will stand behind an inexperienced offensive line and will likely have less time in the pocket. A solid tight end on short routes may be the senior’s best option as the pocket collapses. Wolf’s size will also help in bringing an extra blocker on run plays to a young offensive line. It’s too early to say how high his ceiling is, but Wolf should leave Tennessee fans impressed in year one.