Tennessee Football: 2015 NFL Draft Tracker, Analysis and Results

The Tennessee Volunteers are a program on the rise; the future is bright behind stellar incoming recruiting classes. But that also means former UT players are a couple of years away from making noise in the pros, as evidenced by the 2015 NFL draft.

Behind cornerback Justin Coleman, the only prospects who will likely be considered on Day 3 are A.J. Johnson—which is no guarantee—and Marlin Lane.

This piece will highlight the Volunteers' draft hopefuls. Prior to the draft, we will analyze all three athletes and their respective strengths as football players. We will also discuss predictions on draft positioning. 

Once the draft ends, we will update the slides, detailing each player and how he fits in with his future team.

CB Justin Coleman

Streeter Lecka/Getty Images

Draft Projection: Round 6, Pick 203 to Baltimore Ravens

Height: 5'11"

Weight: 185 lbs

Analysis

The odds are stacked against Justin Coleman, an average-sized cornerback with decent speed and technique. It seems his best NFL role will be on special teams.

Coleman has good hands and instincts, so he could be utilized in various, specific-package defensive sets. The biggest question, however, is if teams have a particular formation that necessitates a player like Coleman.

Replacement

Emmanuel Moseley and Justin Martin will battle for Coleman's place on the edge. Moseley was sidelined during the spring due to mononucleosis, so JUCO transfer Martin gained some valuable extra reps for the competition this fall.

LB A.J. Johnson

Sue Ogrocki/Associated Press

Draft Projection: Undrafted

Height: 6'2"

Weight: 243 lbs

Analysis

Given the continued discussion on domestic violence issues in the NFL, it's hard to imagine A.J. Johnson is even on a draft board following aggravated rape charges. Per The Associated Press via ESPN.com, Johnson's court date is set for Aug. 24.

He tallied 100-plus tackles during each of his last three years at Tennessee, so the football talent is undeniable. However, he's too risky for multiple reasons.

Replacement

Dillon Bates and Darrin Kirkland Jr. will vie for the starting position. Bates, who logged just six tackles last year, had an opportunity to separate himself during the spring but was unable to do so.

RB Marlin Lane

Sue Ogrocki/Associated Press

Draft Projection: Undrafted

Height: 6'0"

Weight: 218 lbs

Analysis

Marlin Lane might need a miracle to hear his name called. He's neither an explosive back nor a physical one. Lane managed 834 rushing yards and five touchdowns during his two seasons playing at Rocky Top.

Replacement

Alabama transfer Alvin Kamara ought to steal some of the spotlight from Jalen Hurd, but the latter will remain the starter as long as he's healthy. Regardless, Kamara should become the undisputed second-stringer.

Note: Draft projections via Matt Miller's mock draft. Heights and weights via Tennessee's official athletics site.