Vols : Why You Can’t Run on Tennessee in 2015

Nov 22, 2014; Knoxville, TN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive lineman Curt Maggitt (56) during the first half against the Missouri Tigers at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports

Curt Maggitt

Senior Curt Maggitt is the undisputed leader of this defensive line. Maggitt became a Tennessee fan favorite after blowing out a knee in 2013. Curt tore an ACL and sat out the entire season. His attitude and infectious support for his team showed Vol fans that this guy was special.

Maggitt returned with a vengeance last season. I think we all held our collective breath when he took the field. We all knew he was vital to a successful season for the Vols. We were all concerned about his knee, but he showed no ill effects. In fact, he looked faster. He finished the season with 56 total tackles.

Maggitt is 6’4″ 252 lbs. That is not big for a defensive lineman. As a matter of fact, Maggitt is more like an outside linebacker than a defensive lineman. But even at his smaller size, Maggitt is a legitimate run stopper as well as a pass rusher. Maggitt uses his speed, and his experience to get to the ball carrier quickly.

Curt does a good job of keeping the behemoth offensive lineman’s hands off of him. He uses great technique, and great desire. He is projected anywhere from a third to a fifth round draft pick in the next NFL draft as an 0utside linebacker.

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