Tennessee’s 5-star freshman offensive tackle David Sanders is expected to miss his third consecutive game due to a lingering shoulder injury, per team sources. The highly touted lineman, who came in as one of the most anticipated additions to the Volunteers’ 2025 class, has been sidelined since Week 2. While initial reports suggested the injury was minor, it has now become a growing concern for Tennessee’s coaching staff and fanbase alike.
Sanders arrived in Knoxville with sky-high expectations. Ranked as one of the top offensive linemen in the country out of high school, he was projected to make an immediate impact, even competing for a starting job in his true freshman year. His combination of athleticism, length, and technique quickly earned him first-team reps during fall camp. However, the shoulder issue flared up late in camp and has lingered far longer than originally anticipated.
Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel has remained cautious in his public statements, emphasizing that the team is prioritizing Sanders’ long-term health. “We want to make sure David is 100% before he gets back out there,” Heupel said earlier this week. “He’s a big part of our future, and we’re not going to rush that process.” While the team has not confirmed whether surgery is on the table, the fact that Sanders is missing a third straight game suggests the injury may be more serious than initially reported.
In his absence, Tennessee has turned to veteran lineman Jeremiah Crawford and redshirt sophomore Addison Nichols to fill the gap on the left side of the line. While both have held up reasonably well, neither offers the upside or long-term potential of Sanders. The Volunteers’ offensive line has shown some inconsistencies in pass protection and run blocking, particularly against top-tier defenses, and the absence of a physically dominant tackle like Sanders has certainly been felt.
For Sanders, the setback is undoubtedly frustrating, especially given how quickly he was emerging as a foundational player. Sources close to the program indicate that while the freshman remains engaged in team meetings and film study, he’s been limited in practice reps and is still undergoing treatment. His timeline for return remains uncertain, with the coaching staff continuing to evaluate his progress on a weekly basis.
As Tennessee navigates the heart of SEC play, Sanders’ recovery will be closely monitored. With the team’s goals still intact and a potential push for the conference title on the line, having an elite talent like Sanders back in the lineup could make a significant difference. However, rushing him back before he’s fully healed could have long-term implications. For now, the Volunteers will have to adjust, leaning on their depth and hoping their prized freshman can return later in the season stronger and healthier.
