Bowl practice allows rehabbing players to return to the field

Tennessee's Monday bowl practice saw some familiar faces rejoin the practice field, as several injured players made their first appearance as active participants on the practice field since suffering significant injuries. 

Sophomore nickelback Rashaan Gaulden, junior receiver Jason Croom, freshman receiver Vincent Perry and freshman linebacker Quart'e Sapp all made returns to the practice field for the Vols, however don't anticipate any of them to play in the Outback Bowl. Playing in the game would eliminate their opportunities to redshirt.

Head coach Butch Jones was happy to see a number of players display their perseverance and return to the field.

“Having Rashaan Gaulden out there, and him being back and doing drills, it was great to see,” Jones said. “I’m really proud of his recovery. Vincent Perry is out there running routes. You can see the progress that he’s made. Jason Croom is out there running routes.

“We are getting some of these individuals back, which is great to see, and they’ve worked hard. Again, this time for the bowl prep will be invaluable for them because they’re getting the extra treatments. And, also, they’re getting out there and doing football-specific movements, as well, so it’s been great to have them back.”