TENNESSEE
Tennessee’s defense just got a huge boost for the 2017 and 2018 seasons.
According to 247Sports, LB Colton Jumper has been granted an extra year of eligibility, as his first year with the Vols in 2014 has been re-classified as a redshirt season.
Therefore, this fall, Jumper will only be a redshirt junior instead of a senior.
That’s a big deal for defensive coordinator Bob Shoop’s unit, as Jumper played a key role in 2016 when starter Darrin Kirkland Jr. missed some time with an injury.
Jumper filled in and had 61 tackles, an interception and a forced fumble.
With Kirkland also set to return next year, Jumper will likely have to shift out of the middle linebacker spot and play on the edge. However, he has experience playing all three linebacker positions, so that shouldn’t be an issue for the Tennessee native.
I was really down on Jumper’s play his first 2 years, but last year he really shinned… can’t believe I am actually glad he coming back for another year…
Jumper played admirably for a decimated defense last year. But his ceiling is still pretty low. I hoping that Bituli is ahead of schedule or McDowell keeps improving because both have some serious talent. Don’t sleep on Ignont either, but its hard to break through as a freshman.