Kelsey Pope Updates Dont'e Thornton's Status For Tennessee Vols

Tennessee Volunteers wide receivers coach Kelsey Pope met with the media and updated wide receiver Dont'e Thornton's status.

Nov 11, 2023; Columbia, Missouri, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. (1) / Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports

Tennessee Volunteers wide receivers coach Kelsey Pope met with the media and updated wide receiver Dont'e Thornton's status.

One year ago, the Tennessee Volunteers went into the transfer portal to find receiver help, with several members of the room off to the NFL. Former Oregon Ducks wide receiver Dont'e Thornton quickly got to campus and chose the Vols. Tennessee was excited about what the 6-foot-5 speedster brought.

Thornton logged 13 receptions for 224 yards and a touchdown during his first season on Rocky Top. He was emerging as a consistent downfield target toward the end of the season but suffered a season-ending injury on a touchdown catch against the Missouri Tigers. Tennessee wide receivers coach Kelsey Pope met with the media on Wednesday and updated Thornton's status.

"He had started in the slot. Once we got him outside, he looked a little bit more natural," Pope explained. "Unfortunately, he dealt with that injury right after that transition, but he’s picked up right where he left off. He’s been consistent this spring. He’s been playing fast. We’re trying to make sure we’re watching his player load and his volume to make sure we keep him healthy, but he’s competed at a high level. He’s had really good energy this spring. He’s done a great job of leading us as well. He’s vocal in that room. A lot of guys look to him for answers and advice. He’s done an awesome job of being able to be that leader for us – one of those leaders for us – so far."

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