Greg McElroy Makes Stunning Prediction For Tennessee’s Defense In 2024

The Tennessee Volunteers are going through a transition period at quarterback with Joe Milton III leaving for the NFL and Nico Iamaleava expected to start. However, Greg McElroy thinks people should not just discuss the Tennessee offense.

On a recent episode of " Always College Football ," McElroy made a bold claim about Tennessee. He thought the Tennessee defense had a chance to be one of the best in the SEC this season.

"...They've had a ton of guys that have been in and out of the lineup offensively, so there hasn't been a ton of continuity there, but we continue to forget that this defense has a chance to be one of the best in the league," McElroy said. "I mean, their defensive line might be the best in the SEC."

The Tennessee defense returns players like edge rusher James Pearce Jr. and cornerback Ricky Gibson III. The Volunteers added players like former Oregon State Beavers corner Jermod McCoy, former Towson Tigers corner Andre Stewart, former Temple Owls corner Jalen McMurray, and former Memphis Tigers safety Jakobe Thomas from the portal.

Tennessee's offseason has not been good, however. The team lost players like linebacker Elijah Herring, safety Brandon Turnage, edge rusher Tyler Baron, safety Tamarrion McDonald, safety Doneiko Slaughter, and corner Warren Burrell to the transfer portal. Herring led the team in tackles last season.

The program also had corner Kamal Hadden and defensive back Jaylen McCollough leave for the NFL. Hadden and McCollough led the team in interceptions last season with three each.

Josh Heupel's offense has been the focus in the offseason, but McElroy wants people to talk about the defense even more.

Tennessee opens the 2024 season against the Chattanooga Mocs on Aug. 31.

Related: Greg McElroy Details How Oklahoma Can Succeed In The SEC