Tree I.D. requested in Eastern Tennessee

I just found this tree while clearing out brush. The bark is so unique but I don't know much about trees, and my initial searches turned up many possibilities. I don't expect anyone to be able to tell me exactly what it is, but I'm hoping to narrow the field somewhat. Then I can identify it later in the year from that, once leaves develop.

I only have the one picture; there are no leaves right now and no branches I could reach. The tree is tangled in vines so I can't see it enough to get a decent picture. Any help appreciated.

I'm in Eastern Tennessee, but the property has a lot of invasives.