With the transfer of Jalen Hurd to Baylor and Alvin Kamara to the NFL, there is no question who the leader of the Vols’ backfield in 2017 is going to be. Junior John Kelly will not only bring experience to the running back position in 2017, but also leadership and toughness.
Last season, during his sophomore campaign where he saw action in 12 games in mostly a back up role, Kelly led a talented backfield with 630 yards on 98 carries as well as 5 rushing TDs. Now, heading into his junior season as the clear starter, Kelly plans to stake his claim as the best running back in the SEC.