Photo via Tennessee Athletics
Tennessee football is working through its spring slate of practices, all leading up to the annual Orange & White Game. When the Vols do take the field, one of the best players in the Josh Heupel Era will be in attendance. Former UT cornerback Alontae Taylor announced he’ll be at the game.
The 2026 Orange & White Game is scheduled for April 11, 2026, at 2 p.m. ET. Entrance to the game is free for fans, but some areas will be closed due to ongoing construction. Seating will be unavailable in sections G through Q and GG through QQ.
Tennessee’s spring games have seen various formats under Heupel. While this year’s format hasn’t been announced, if it follows recent trends, it will be more of an exhibition than a scrimmage, with the offense wearing one color and the defense another. Likely, the score will be kept, but it won’t be a true split of teams.
April 11th – Neyland ! Can’t wait 🍊
— Alontae Taylor (@taeetaylor) March 25, 2026
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Taylor is back in his home state as he continues his NFL career. As a free agent, he signed with the Tennessee Titans, which places him a reasonably short drive away from his alma mater.
In 17 games this past season with the Saints, his fourth in the NFL, Taylor recorded 83 tackles, two sacks and two interceptions. He posted a strong PFF grade of 63.8 on the year, as well.
Taylor played at Tennessee from 2018-21 under both Jeremy Pruitt and Heupel. Taylor finished his college tenure with 162 tackles, four interceptions, a pick-six and a fumble recovery for a touchdown. He used his strong career to earn a second-round selection in the 2022 NFL Draft. He went 49th overall to New Orleans that year.