The recent official announcement confirms what had been circulating as speculation for several weeks—Javontez Spraggins is making a return to Tennessee for the upcoming 2024 season, marking a significant development for the Volunteers. The news was shared by the standout offensive guard himself, solidifying the return of a key player on the team. Adding to the positive news, Spraggins rejoins forces with fellow linemen Cooper Mays and John Campbell, creating a formidable foundation for the team’s offensive line. Additionally, the roster has been enriched with the inclusion of Lance Heard, a former five-star prospect, who is anticipated to take on the crucial left tackle role.
This collective return of experience and talent on the offensive front bodes well for the Volunteers, providing a substantial boost to first-year starting quarterback Nico Iamaleava. The seasoned trio of Spraggins, Mays, and Campbell, combined with the promising addition of Heard, forms a potent lineup that could prove instrumental in the team’s success in the upcoming season.
What adds a layer of intrigue to Spraggins’ return is his evolution from a three-star prospect to a legitimate NFL prospect. Notably, CBS Sports projected him as a first-round pick in a mock draft last summer, highlighting the significant strides he has made in his football career. Opting to delay the commencement of his professional journey, Spraggins is set to play a pivotal role in guiding and supporting the team through the Iamaleava era in Knoxville.
However, the road ahead for Spraggins includes the challenge of working his way back to full strength after a knee injury sustained late in the previous year. With spring practices scheduled to kick off in mid-March, all eyes will be on Spraggins as he strives to regain his peak form and contribute to the team’s preparations for the upcoming season. This narrative adds an element of anticipation and excitement to the evolving storyline of Tennessee football, with Spraggins poised to play a central role in the team’s aspirations for success.
