Kelley Washington, Tennessee's leading receiver last season, returned to practice Monday after missing the fourth-ranked Volunteers' first two games because of a sprained knee. He will play Saturday against No. 10 Florida.

"I feel like I'm a top class athlete. It shouldn't be a problem,'' Washington said about his time away.

"I really didn't miss a beat. I'm hungry to go out there and make a big play for my team.''

The Vols (2-0) were off last week and open Southeastern Conference play against the Gators (2-1) at home on Saturday.

Washington hasn't practiced the last four weeks to allow time for his right knee to heal.

He was listed Monday as a starter beside sophomore Tony Brown.

Washington, a 6-foot-4, 225-pound sophomore, had 64 catches for 1,010 yards and five touchdowns in 2001.

With the early departure of Donte Stallworth to the NFL this spring, Washington returned as the Vols' best receiver.

Washington walked on to the team last year after being drafted out of high school by the Florida Marlins in 1997. He missed several weeks of practice last year with a sore foot.