Several players change numbers ahead of Tennessee’s first game

During Friday’s practice, a number of key players for Tennessee were spotted wearing different jersey numbers. This was likely a move to satisfy special teams rules, which could result in a five yard penalty if two players are on the field with the same number.

Running Back Ty Chandler: No. 3 — No. 8

Tight End Dominick Wood-Anderson: No. 18 — No. 4

Wide Receiver Josh Palmer: No. 5 — No. 84

Outside Linebacker Jonathan Kongbo: No. 1 — No. 99

Outside Linebacker Austin Smith: No. 11 — No. 30

Cornerback Bryce Thompson: No. 10 — No. 20

Defensive Lineman Kingston Harris: No. 51 — No. 54

Kicker Brett Cimaglia: No. 30 — No. 42

Cornerback D.J. Henderson: No. 31 — No. 39

Defensive Lineman Matthew Butler: No. 56 — No. 94

“I think we need to play our best players,” Tennessee head coach Jeremy Pruitt told the media about special teams last week. “If you’re not a good special teams player, then you’re probably not a good offensive or defensive player. We’re going to play our best players on special teams.”