Tennessee Volunteers

Coaches excited to have JUCO players added to the roster

Published Dec. 21, 2015 11:07 a.m. ET

foxsports

Tennessee is expected to make a serious push toward winning the SEC in 2016 and will likely need immediate contributions from several newcomers to make that happen. With that in mind, the Volunteer coaching staff recruited the junior college ranks hard this year and believe they have come away with some difference makers.

Facing a revamped secondary in 2016, the addition of defensive back D.J. Henderson should help ease any transition according to defensive coordinator John Jancek. Henderson had 11 pass break-ups and two interceptions in 2015.

"I think D.J. was a guy that we slated for the outside, to play corner," Jancek said. "I think he's a guy that can play off. I think he can press. He's got really good feet, quickness, and change of direction. He showed physicality on film."

As the Vols continue to add bulk and talent to the defensive line, no JUCO signee may be more important than the addition of Alexis Johnson, who will be asked to help ease the loss of underrated senior defensive tackle Owen Williams.

"Alexis Johnson is a big-bodied defensive lineman," Jancek said. "He's quick. He's sudden. He's explosive. He can bend. On film, he looks like he can play the three technique. He can play the nose [tackle]. You can move him around. He's a guy that would not only be good in the run, but also in pass rush, which is critical for us. I'm really excited about that."