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Josh Heupel speaks to Dee Williams’ response from fumble, potential at multiple positions
By Keith Farner
Published:
Dee Williams had a rollercoaster of a day on Saturday as the speedy return man lost a fumble, but also had a 34-yard kickoff return, and 3 punt returns for 105 yards, including a 55-yarder.
While he’s listed as a cornerback and special teams returner, coach Josh Heupel on Monday was asked if there’s any consideration to Williams playing on offense, as the reporter mentioned a “log jam” at defensive back.
“Dee is special with the ball in his hands, but he’ll continue to work at the corner spot, and obviously be heavily active in our return game,” Heupel said. “I thought the way that he responded after something not going his way showed maturity, and actually pointed that out to the team after the ballgame, and did that again today.”
Last season, Williams appeared in 9 games and collected 281 yards on 15 punt returns with one touchdown and averaged an SEC-best 18.7 yards per return. He added 5 tackles and one forced fumble. Tennessee fans may remember his 73-yard punt return touchdown at Vanderbilt, which was the first punt return TD by the Vols since Marquez Callaway’s 65-yarder against South Carolina in 2019.
A former newspaper veteran, Keith Farner is a news manager for Saturday Down South.
