Justin Harrell will return next season.

"I'm coming back," the Tennessee defensive tackle said Wednesday. "The only reason I got the evaluation was to see where I stood."

Harrell will be UT's only returning starter on the defensive line. He was considering forgoing his senior season for the NFL.

Harrell said he wasn't ready for the business side of the NFL, including hiring an agent and personal trainer.

"I wasn't prepared for all of that," Harrell said. "I really never thought about leaving."

Harrell said the NFL draft advisory committee projected him as a likely second-round pick.

"It's a good position to be in right here but I know a lot of things I need to work on my senior year," Harrell said. "Hopefully I can get that down."

The 300-pounder said he would like to lose 10 pounds in time for his senior year. He hopes playing at 290 will help his quickness and pass-rushing ability.

Harrell had 21 tackles, 7.5 for a loss, 2.5 sacks and two interceptions during UT's disappointing 5-6 season. He said righting the Vols' ship was a reason why he decided to return.

"You don't want to go out with your last year the way this last season was," Harrell said. "I have a chance to come back and, hopefully, get this team together."

Harrell informed UT's coaches of his decision earlier this week as he hosted them for dinner.

Offensive lineman Rob Smith informed UT's coaches of his decision earlier this week. He will forgo his final year of eligibility and enter the draft.

Several other Vols' underclassmen still are weighing their options, including offensive lineman Arron Sears, fullback Cory Anderson and defensive linemen Turk McBride and Tony McDaniel. Sears is thought to be the only one of the group seriously considering leaving early. Several players annually use the NFL draft advisory committee to check their draft status.