2026 Tennessee position battles: DeSean Bishop is RB1, but then what?

As Tennessee's running game continues to be a cornerstone of head coach Josh Heupel's approach, the battle for the second and third running back spots is intensifying. DeSean Bishop, the local product and former walk-on, has emerged as the team's top option, carving out a 1,076 yard season last year with 16 touchdowns and nearly six yards per carry. Bishop has bulked up to 215 pounds, aiming to maintain his health for the full SEC season ahead.

However, the race for the backup and third running back positions is far from over. Tennessee's tradition of rotating through multiple backs has proven effective, with Daune Morris and Javin Gordon vying for the remaining spots. Morris, who saw limited action last season behind Bishop, offers more agility and burst, potentially providing a fresh boost to the offense. The sophomore back handled 35 carries for 133 yards in 2024, and Heupel has bolstered the backfield with the addition of Tulane recruit Javin Gordon.

Gordon, a 5-10, 212 pound back, brings a compact, physical style reminiscent of former Tennessee running back Jabari Small. The freshman running back added 516 yards and five scores in his true freshman season, as well as 13 receptions. However, it remains to be seen whether Gordon will secure a consistent role on the depth chart, as sophomore Justin Baker currently appears to be the final piece of the backfield's puzzle.

With a few weeks of camp remaining, Tennessee will undoubtedly be evaluating the strengths of each option and determining how much weight they intend to place on Bishop's continued leadership at the position.