Walker, Hancock garner praise

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Tennessee defensive end Chris Walker and receiver Quintin Hancock were named the most improved players of spring practice Thursday.

Walker did not practice. He's been bothered by a sore knee since April 3. Walker said an MRI on Wednesday came back negative and he will play in Saturday's Orange and White Game.

"I'll be ready to go Saturday," Walker said.

Walker said he's pleased to be named one of UT's most improved players in spring practice.

"That means our coaches have really seen what I've gotten done," the junior said. "They really have that confidence in me that I've gotten something accomplished. That's what I feel good about. I wanted to come out here and work hard and I think that showed and paid off."

As for Hancock, he said he's excited to win the award.

"I came out and worked hard every day," said Hancock, who added a soaring catch Thursday to his spring highlight reel. "It's an honor to get it this year.

"You can always do better but I'm pleased with the way I played."

Recruiting Roundup: UT hosted four prospects Thursday.

-- Former Boston Red Sox minor league pitcher Mike Rozier is considering a return to college football, and possibly UT, after being a standout quarterback at Henry County High School in Stockbridge, Ga. Rozier signed with North Carolina in 2004 before pursuing his baseball career.

-- The Vols played host to two 2010 prospects from Tampa (Fla.) Catholic: brothers Chaz and Christian Green. Chaz is an offensive lineman. Christian is a dual-threat quarterback.

-- UT also played host to 2011 lineman commitment Eric MacLain from Jack Britt High School in North Carolina.

Injury Report: Receiver Gerald Jones left the practice field and quickly had ice adhered to his left foot and ankle. Defensive end Ben Martin left practice with what appeared to be a sore left leg. Kiffin said he expects both to participate Saturday.

Tailback Tauren Poole left practice with what appeared to be a right shoulder injury. His status is unknown. Tight end Jeff Cottam (knee) missed another practice.

Visitors: Several national media members were at practice, including Chris Fowler of ESPN and Todd Blackledge of CBS. ESPN is planning a feature on Kiffin and has interviewed several coaches and players.

Former UT players Heath Shuler and Eric Westmoreland and former coach/player Johnny Majors also were at practice.

Practice Report: Kiffin seemed pleased with Thursday's practice.

"We weren't into resting up for Saturday," he said. "It was too important to have a great one today. I thought the guys did well."