BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The Southeastern Conference recognized Max Gilbert and Braylon Staley on Monday for their performances in the Vols’ 34-31 victory over Arkansas.
Gilbert was named SEC Co-Special Teams Player of the Week, while Staley earned SEC Freshman of the Week honors.
Gilbert was perfect on the day, connecting on all four PATs and both of his field goal tries – including a 50-yarder in the second half that proved to be the difference. He also converted a 37-yard field goal in the second quarter. The redshirt sophomore is now 10-of-12 on field goals this season and 2-of-2 from 50-plus yards.
He currently ranks fifth nationally in points per game (10.7) and fourth in total points (64), leading the SEC in both categories.
Staley recorded the first 100-yard receiving game of his career with six catches for 109 yards. The redshirt freshman had five receptions for 105 yards in the first half alone. His 42-yard catch late in the second quarter was the second-longest of his career.
Under head coach Josh Heupel, Tennessee has earned 47 weekly honors from the SEC since 2021, including six so far this season.
SEC Weekly Awards – Week 6 (Oct. 11, 2025)
OFFENSIVE
Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama
DEFENSIVE
Malik Muhammad, DB, Texas
SPECIAL TEAMS
Ryan Niblett, PR, Texas
Max Gilbert, PK, Tennessee
OFFENSIVE LINE
Monroe Freeling, OL, Georgia
DEFENSIVE LINE
Colin Simmons, EDGE, Texas
Dayon Hayes, DE, Texas A&M
FRESHMAN
Braylon Staley, WR, Tennessee
