UPDATED: Tracking Tennessee’s most recent targets in the transfer portal

As the 2025 college football season approaches, the Tennessee Volunteers are continuing to make waves in the transfer portal, looking to bolster their roster with new talent that could help the program compete at the highest levels in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Tennessee’s head coach, Josh Heupel, has done an excellent job navigating the portal in previous years, bringing in players who have contributed immediately. As we move into the 2025 offseason, the Volunteers are once again focused on adding key pieces to address specific needs and solidify their roster for the upcoming season.

The transfer portal is always a crucial component in the recruiting process, and Tennessee has been aggressive in targeting the best available players to improve their depth, especially after a season of ups and downs. The ability to capitalize on the portal could be the difference between a SEC championship contender and a team that falls short of its lofty expectations. Below, we’ll take a look at Tennessee’s most recent targets in the transfer portal, focusing on their positions, potential impact, and the significance of these additions to the Volunteers’ future success.

1. Quarterback: Seeking Depth Behind Joe Milton

One of the primary areas of focus for Tennessee in the transfer portal has been the quarterback position. While Joe Milton has solidified himself as the starter for the Volunteers, his backup role remains somewhat uncertain. The Volunteers have been actively monitoring quarterbacks in the portal, looking for a potential backup who could step in if needed and contribute in both games and practices.

The recent addition of Austin Simmons, a dual-threat quarterback from Florida, has piqued the interest of many. Simmons, a former four-star recruit, has the ability to contribute with his legs as well as his arm, adding a dynamic element to Tennessee’s offense. While he may not immediately challenge Milton for the starting role, Simmons’ mobility and experience could be beneficial for the team, especially in relief situations.

Another quarterback the Volunteers have expressed interest in is Jalen Kitna from Florida, who has a strong arm and solid mechanics. Kitna, who comes from a family with a rich football pedigree, could be a valuable asset to Tennessee’s offense, offering a backup with a high ceiling and valuable experience in SEC competition.

2. Wide Receiver: Reinforcing Depth for High-Tempo Offense

Tennessee’s high-tempo, pass-heavy offense under Josh Heupel relies heavily on dynamic playmakers at the wide receiver position. With Jalin Hyatt and Cedric Tillman both departing for the NFL Draft, the Volunteers are looking to add talent to their receiving corps to replace these key contributors.

One target that has emerged as a potential fit for the Volunteers is Malik Nabers, a highly productive receiver from LSU. Nabers brings impressive speed and strong ball skills, having been a key playmaker for the Tigers. His ability to stretch the field and make explosive plays would be a significant addition to Tennessee’s offense, allowing Heupel to continue running a system that is predicated on big plays.

In addition to Nabers, Tennessee has been rumored to be targeting Kendall Thomas, a transfer wideout from Western Kentucky who had a breakout season last year. Thomas was highly productive in the Hilltoppers’ high-octane offense and could seamlessly fit into Tennessee’s scheme. His ability to make plays both outside and in the slot would add versatility to the Volunteers’ receiving corps.

Finally, Jadon Thompson, a standout from Missouri, has been linked to Tennessee. Thompson possesses the size and physicality to be a key red-zone target, something that would help Tennessee maintain a balanced attack while continuing to press the tempo. Adding a physical presence at receiver could help the Volunteers in critical situations, such as third downs and red-zone plays.

3. Offensive Line: Protecting Milton and Establishing a Powerful Run Game

The Tennessee Volunteers have invested significant resources in building a strong offensive line, and this year is no different. However, with a few question marks regarding depth and consistency, Tennessee has been active in pursuing offensive linemen who can compete at a high level in the SEC.

One of the more intriguing transfer portal targets for Tennessee is Mason Brooks, an offensive lineman from Western Kentucky. Brooks is a veteran with plenty of experience at the FBS level and could immediately step into the Volunteers’ lineup. He is a versatile player who can line up at both guard and tackle, offering flexibility to Tennessee’s offensive front. Brooks has an impressive mix of size and strength and would help provide much-needed protection for Joe Milton and open up running lanes for the Volunteers’ running back corps.

Another offensive lineman the Volunteers have expressed interest in is Trevon Avery, a tackle from Baylor. Avery has been a consistent contributor for the Bears and has the size and skills to compete in the SEC. The addition of Avery would provide a veteran presence on the offensive line, which would be especially important for Tennessee as they look to develop their offense and protect their quarterback.

While Tennessee has already made significant strides in recruiting offensive line talent, adding another experienced body in the transfer portal would help solidify their offensive front and provide more depth for the upcoming season.

4. Defensive Line: Improving Pass Rush and Stopping the Run

While Tennessee’s offense has garnered much of the attention under Josh Heupel, the Volunteers have also been focusing on improving their defense, particularly their defensive line. Despite having some key contributors in the trenches, the Vols have struggled at times to generate a consistent pass rush and clog up running lanes. As a result, Tennessee has been scouting the transfer portal for defensive linemen who can make an immediate impact.

One name that has emerged as a target for Tennessee is Mason Williams, a defensive lineman from Mississippi State. Williams is a dynamic pass rusher with the ability to disrupt plays in the backfield. His size, strength, and quickness off the line would provide a much-needed boost to Tennessee’s defensive line, allowing them to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks and stop the run more effectively.

Another potential target is Tyree Johnson, a highly regarded defensive end from Texas A&M. Johnson has shown flashes of brilliance and can be a force against both the pass and the run. His physicality and ability to get to the quarterback would improve Tennessee’s ability to pressure opposing offenses, especially in SEC play. The Volunteers’ defense could take a significant leap forward with a player like Johnson in the mix.

Lastly, Tennessee has shown interest in Jalen Lee, a transfer from LSU, who has been a consistent force in the trenches for the Tigers. Lee’s versatility and ability to both rush the passer and stop the run would make him a valuable addition to Tennessee’s defensive line rotation.

5. Linebacker: Adding Versatility and Depth to the Defense

Tennessee’s linebacker corps will also be under scrutiny heading into 2025, as the team looks to improve its defensive consistency. With several key players leaving or entering the draft, the Volunteers have actively sought linebacker talent in the portal to reinforce their defense.

One transfer target that has been linked to Tennessee is KeShun Jackson, a linebacker from South Carolina who has experience in the SEC. Jackson’s ability to read plays and contribute both in pass coverage and as a tackler against the run would immediately bolster Tennessee’s defense. His leadership and experience could help the Volunteers shore up one of their most critical positions.

Tennessee is also eyeing Tyler Brown, an athletic linebacker from Nebraska, who has shown promise in both pass rushing and coverage. Brown’s versatility makes him an intriguing prospect for the Volunteers, as his skill set could allow him to play multiple linebacker roles in Tennessee’s defensive scheme.

6. Safety: Improving the Secondary

As Tennessee looks to build a well-rounded defense, the secondary has also been a priority. With several key departures in the safety position, the Volunteers are targeting safeties in the transfer portal who can provide depth and experience in the back end of the defense.

One standout safety the Volunteers have shown interest in is Jordan Battle, a standout safety from Alabama. Battle has a strong reputation as a ball hawk, with a nose for the football and the ability to break up passes and force turnovers. His experience playing in the SEC would be an invaluable asset to Tennessee’s defense, especially when facing high-powered offenses.

Another safety the Volunteers are targeting is Tyreke Johnson, a versatile defensive back from Ohio State, who has the speed and agility to cover ground quickly. Johnson’s ability to cover deep passes and play close to the line of scrimmage would be a welcome addition to Tennessee’s secondary, improving their ability to stop the pass and provide coverage against some of the SEC’s top quarterbacks.