Tennessee Vols starter reportedly opts out of Citrus Bowl

The Tennessee Vols haven't had many opt-outs for the Citrus Bowl, but a name was added to that short list on Tuesday. 

According to the Knoxville News Sentinel, senior running back Jabari Small didn't travel with the team to Orlando on Tuesday and has opted out of the Citrus Bowl. 

Last week, junior running back Jaylen Wright announced that he's entering the NFL Draft while also opting out of the Citrus Bowl. 

Small rushed for 475 yards and two touchdowns this season while catching seven passes for 40 yards. A year ago, Small rushed for 734 yards and totaled 15 touchdowns (13 rushing and two receiving). 

The Memphis native has another year of eligibility remaining. While he hasn't announced his plans for 2024, his Citrus Bowl opt out would seem to indicate that he's either going to enter the 2024 NFL Draft or transfer for his final season of eligibility. 

Sophomore Dylan Sampson and true freshman Cam Seldon will serve as Tennessee's top running backs in the Citrus Bowl on New Year's Day against Iowa.