David Sanders: From 5-Star Bust to Tennessee Tackle
Tennessee's David Sanders has come a long way from being a freshman who doubted himself as a five-star recruit.
After a recent preseason practice, Sanders recognized discouragement in freshman Gabriel Osenda, who was also rated as a five-star offensive tackle by some recruiting services. "Gabe came in with a higher rank, kind of like I did," Sanders said. "When (offensive linemen) talk to me about the pressure of their freshman year – not wanting to be the one that’s posted on Instagram as the college bust – I can feel that pain."
"I had the same worries last year, trying to understand the playbook and just get on the field as a freshman."
Sanders, now a rising star in the SEC, was a 2025 Freshman All-American and arguably the No. 1 offensive tackle in the 2025 recruiting class. He's confident after starting the final six games of last season at right tackle and feels at home after moving to left tackle, his natural position.
He's also stronger and quicker in his 6-foot-6, 310-pound frame after going through new strength coach Derek Owings' demanding offseason program.
Offensive line coach Glen Elarbee praised Sanders' new physique. "He’s incredible, man. I’d love one day to be able to walk around and look like that," Elarbee said. "And now he is so different. There are things that he can do technique-wise that before when he was light (weight) – light and not strong – that he had to find ways to make up for."
"He’s freaky talented. And he’s as good looking as he possibly can be."
Sanders' transformation is symbolic of where the Tennessee offensive line wants to improve. Last season, it was talented but tired, and the Vols went 3-4 in their last seven games as the line lost steam in the stretch run.
"We’re trying to build our gas tank, so when we get halfway through the season we can finish and hammer the way we need to," Elarbee said.
The Vols have depth on the offensive line, with five starters or part-time starters back from last season. Sanders and left guard Wendell Moe are Preseason All-SEC selections, and Sam Pendleton returns at center.
The right side of the line is up for grabs, with several combinations possible. Jesse Perry, a 2025 Freshman All-American, started at right guard and right tackle last season and could play either position this season.
Veteran Sham Umarov started 10 games at left guard last season and is now splitting time between left guard and right guard. Transfer Donovan Haslam started at West Virginia last season and is competing at right guard, and LSU transfer Ory Williams is an option at right tackle.
The Vols are so deep that Osenda, the blue-chip freshman under Sanders' wing, has time to develop rather than play immediately.
As Elarbee acknowledged, he's got more options and combinations on the offensive line than in any of his six seasons at UT. Now comes the hard part: picking his best five. "Is it experience? Is it athleticism? What gives you the best advantage? It all matters, and that’s what we’ve got to figure out," Elarbee said. "Man, it sure ain’t easy."
Source: Yahoo Sports