According to a Vols insider, Tennessee may still look for certain positions on the NCAA transfer portal.
During the winter transfer window, the Tennessee Vols haven’t been very active on the NCAA transfer portal.
Only two transfers have been added by Tennessee thus far: Alabama wide receiver Amari Jefferson and Arizona offensive tackle Wendell Moe.
This winter’s approach by the Vols is not out of the ordinary. Tennessee has concentrated on making the most of their transfer arrivals under Josh Heupel. Every major name that enters the NCAA transfer portal does not receive absurd sums of money. Rather, they explicitly look for athletes who they believe can make an immediate impact on the team and blend in with Tennessee’s prestigious culture.
The Vols have benefited greatly from that procedure thus far. Over the past few years, the majority of Tennessee’s transfer signings have made significant contributions. Transfers haven’t been particularly “duds” for the Vols.
Tennessee may still seek certain positions on the NCAA transfer portal, according to a Vols insider.
Brent Hubbs of VolQuest joined 104.5 On Friday, he was asked which spots Tennessee is still aiming for in the transfer portal by the Zone’s Ramon, Kayla, and Will.
In addition to mentioning offensive guard, defensive line, defensive back, and running back as positions Tennessee might target in the transfer portal (if the fit makes sense), Hubbs believes the Vols want to add another wide receiver.
“They would like to certainly add another receiver in this cycle if they can,” Hubbs said. “The question now is, is there someone they like at the moment? Let’s see. Although they haven’t invited anyone to visit the campus, I believe they are testing the waters with men who are currently in or plan to enter the portal. The college football season will end in ten days, so there is still time for some individuals to enter. Additionally, you have the spring cycle, and what does that look like? We shall see.
“I believe that Tennessee will continue to operate. Additionally, they have Emmanuel Pregnon, an offensive lineman, who is a USC transfer who has been on campus for the previous 24 hours. That [fight] seems to be between Tennessee and Oregon. His next destination is Texas. Let’s see how that one turns out. Therefore, if Tennessee can acquire the offensive guard they truly like, I believe they would prefer to have one. And a receiver, no doubt. After that, we’ll watch their defensive actions. Will they bring in a defensive lineman after looking at some? Would they kick tires there if the right defensive back [enters the portal]? They would definitely check out those locations, in my opinion. Additionally, they might run back and accomplish something, either now or during the spring cycle. I believe you’re constantly searching. They’re not just taking a body, in my opinion. The fit must be perfect. However, you’re undoubtedly searching for possible matches.
Tennessee appears to be concentrating on attempting to strengthen their depth at a few critical positions. And given that the majority of the Vols’ starting positions for the upcoming season are already reserved, that strategy makes perfect sense. In the spring and summer, there will be some position battles (particularly around the offensive line). However, we generally know who will start at the majority of positions.
It makes sense to add depth. However, it can be challenging. Although Tennessee can’t guarantee playing time at every position (and shouldn’t—playing time is earned on the practice field), many players in the transfer portal are searching for it. However, in the past, the Vols have successfully navigated those seas. This transfer cycle shouldn’t be expected to be any different.
