Tennessee Volunteers

PHOTO: CB Justin Martin has his practice stripe removed

Published Sep. 23, 2015 7:28 p.m. ET

foxsports

In what could be an indication of his impended extended playing time, sophomore cornerback Justin Martin had his practice stripe removed during Tennessee's Wednesday practice.

Congrats to Justin Martin (@Elite_made) on having his ➖ removed today! #EarningStripes pic.twitter.com/PSSHIOoWH7
— Tennessee Football (@Vol_Football) September 23, 2015

The defensive back had been one of the early stars of fall camp before being sidelined with a sprained knee. Having his stripe removed is a good sign that the former coveted junior college prospect in now in a better position to contribute for the Vols.

After looking shaky in the opener against Bowling Green, Tennessee looked improved for much of the Oklahoma game but will likely need Martin to make an impact in the secondary as soon as this week in Gainesville. Tennessee currently ranks 12th in passing defense in the SEC.