Key Tennessee Vols player expected to return for Texas A&M game

Tennessee Vols head coach Josh Heupel said this week that he anticipates a key player returning to the lineup when UT takes on Texas A&M on October 14 in Knoxville. 

Heupel told reporters during the SEC coaches teleconference on Wednesday that wide receiver Dont'e Thornton, a transfer addition from Oregon, should be good to for Tennessee's game against the Aggies. 

Thornton missed last weekend's game against South Carolina. 

"Dont'e wasn’t available last week, anticipating him being ready for A&M," said Heupel. 

Thornton has caught seven passes for 89 yards so far this season. His lack of production (as far as yardage and receptions) likely has a lot to do with him being new to Tennessee's offense. As he becomes more comfortable in the Vols' offense, his elite size/speed combination could provide Tennessee with an explosive boost. 

With Bru McCoy out for the rest of the season due to the devastating injury he suffered against South Carolina, there should be even more opportunity for Thornton in the passing game moving forward.