Tennessee opens fall camp on Tuesday.

Though the Vols showed improvement defensively during last season's 11-2 campaign, the group is looking to take another step with five starters back and a plethora of players that saw significant playing time in 2022.

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Here are three defensive storylines ahead of fall camp.

Tennessee didn't lose much from its defense, but among its losses was EDGE Byron Young.

An impressive 2022 season benefited a strong defensive front for the Vols and helped Young land in the fourth round of the NFL Draft. Now the coaching staff is tasked with replacing him.

MORE FROM VOLREPORT: Three offensive storylines ahead of Tennessee football fall camp

Tyler Baron and Roman Harrison return as experienced pass rushers with Joshua Josephs and Tyre West behind them. Bryson Eason and Omari Thomas make up the inside at tackle with Thomas expected to have a big season.

Thomas totaled 27 tackles and two sacks last season and is undoubtedly the team leader up front.

Aaron Beasley had a stellar season a year ago.

The linebacker totaled a team-high 76 tackles and opted to return for his senior season, providing a boost for a Tennessee defense that is looking for more improvement.

WATCH ON VOLREPORT: Tennessee DL Omari Thomas talks leadership and defensive improvement

Beasley missed out on All-SEC preseason teams, but that could change by the end of the regular season. He will lead the way for a unit that is laden with youth but has some experience beside him with BYU transfer Keenan Pili, who went through spring practices.

Kalib Perry played in 12 games as a true freshman and could have an even bigger role this season, as could Elijah Herring, who saw action in 13 games. Arion Carter was a heralded four star recruit in the 2023 signing class that early enrolled and benefited from spring practice.

It's evident that Tennessee's biggest defensive improvement needs to come in the secondary.

The Vols have struggled in pass defense over the last two seasons but injuries and a lack of depth to make up for it have played a part.

MORE FROM VOLREPORT: Tennessee football position preview: Linebackers

The good news for Tennessee is that it enters fall camp relatively healthy and has much of its production back from last season. Three starters are back, including corner Doneiko Slaughter and safety Tamarion McDonald.

Warren Burrell returns at corner after missing most of last season with an injury and another transfer addition from BYU in Gabe Jeudy-Lally brings experience. Wesley Walker played in 13 games and is expected to start at safety following a strong season.

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