UPDATED: Monitoring the transfer site for Tennessee’s most recent targets

As the college football landscape continues to evolve, the transfer portal has become an increasingly important tool for programs looking to strengthen their rosters. For Tennessee, a program that has seen significant success under head coach Josh Heupel, the transfer portal represents an opportunity to not only fill immediate gaps but also to enhance the team’s depth and overall talent pool. In the 2024 offseason, Tennessee has been actively monitoring and pursuing key targets in the transfer portal in an effort to continue their rise within the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and compete at a national level.

This updated report examines Tennessee’s most recent transfer portal targets, highlighting their positions, the impact they could have on the team, and how they fit into the Volunteers’ strategic goals. As Tennessee aims to build on a promising 2023 season and capitalize on their recruiting momentum, the transfer portal will play a pivotal role in determining the Volunteers’ potential for success in 2024 and beyond.

1. Offensive Line: Strengthening the Trenches

Tennessee’s offensive line has been one of the most critical aspects of their offensive system, which relies heavily on fast-paced tempo and strong offensive line play to facilitate success. However, the 2024 season has revealed a few areas where depth and experience could be lacking, particularly on the interior. For that reason, the Volunteers have made several moves in the transfer portal to shore up their offensive line.

One of Tennessee’s most prominent targets in the transfer portal has been Jaden Johnson, an experienced offensive guard from a smaller program who had an impressive 2023 season. Johnson’s size and physicality make him an ideal fit for Tennessee’s scheme, and his experience at the college level would immediately bolster a unit that has struggled with consistency. His ability to play multiple positions along the line would also provide flexibility, which is crucial in the SEC, where injuries are commonplace. Adding a player like Johnson would give Tennessee the stability they need to compete against some of the toughest defensive lines in the country.

Another name that has emerged in Tennessee’s pursuit is Trey Sneed, a tackle from the transfer portal who has been turning heads with his size and athleticism. Sneed’s ability to protect the quarterback while also being a factor in the running game makes him a potential upgrade for Tennessee’s offensive line. He could compete for a starting spot and immediately add depth, which is key in a season that may see increased rotations to keep players fresh. If Tennessee can land Sneed, it would provide a major boost for an offensive line that needs to play at a higher level to achieve their full potential in 2024.

2. Wide Receiver: Adding a Playmaking Threat

One of the hallmarks of Tennessee’s offense under Josh Heupel has been its ability to stretch the field vertically and create explosive plays. While Tennessee has some strong playmakers at wide receiver, there is a desire to add more depth and experience to the position, especially considering the physical nature of SEC defenses. The Volunteers are seeking a game-breaking wide receiver in the transfer portal, someone who can complement the talents of Squirrel White and Bru McCoy while adding additional versatility to the receiving corps.

Jadon Hasslewood, a former four-star recruit, has been linked to Tennessee as one of their top transfer portal targets. Hasslewood, who spent time at Arkansas before entering the portal, has the size and skill set to be a difference-maker on the outside. With his ability to win contested catches and stretch the field, Hasslewood could be a perfect fit in Tennessee’s high-flying offense. He brings a wealth of experience and production, including over 700 yards and 6 touchdowns during his time at Arkansas, making him one of the most accomplished wideouts in the transfer portal. His addition would give Tennessee another proven playmaker who can stretch the defense and create mismatches for opposing secondaries.

In addition to Hasslewood, Tennessee has been monitoring Jordan Tyson, a speedster from Colorado who can operate both on the outside and in the slot. Tyson’s elite speed would allow him to be a deep threat, opening up the offense and providing more opportunities for the Volunteers’ quarterbacks to connect with wide receivers down the field. His ability to contribute on special teams as a returner also provides extra value to the roster. Tyson’s addition would immediately elevate Tennessee’s receiving corps and give the Volunteers another weapon to employ in Heupel’s fast-paced attack.

3. Linebacker: Enhancing the Defensive Front

The linebacker position has long been one of Tennessee’s weaker spots, and in 2024, this issue has been particularly pronounced. The Volunteers are seeking to add depth and playmaking ability to their linebacker corps through the transfer portal. Tennessee’s defense, while generally strong, has struggled at times to contain dynamic offensive attacks, particularly in the passing game and in open-field situations.

TJ McFadden, a linebacker from Western Kentucky, has been identified as a potential target to add experience and leadership to the unit. McFadden’s ability to play both inside and outside linebacker makes him a versatile option for Tennessee. He has good sideline-to-sideline range and has demonstrated the ability to contribute in both coverage and run defense. McFadden would provide immediate help to a linebacker group that has struggled with consistency, and his leadership would be valuable for a team that needs to improve its defensive efficiency.

Another intriguing prospect that has emerged in the transfer portal is Kobe Bryant (not to be confused with the former NBA star). Bryant, who played at LSU before entering the portal, is known for his physicality and playmaking ability. His 6-foot-3 frame and speed make him a powerful presence on the field, capable of disrupting opposing offenses and closing gaps quickly. His addition would help Tennessee address some of their defensive struggles, particularly against the run, and give the Volunteers a more athletic and aggressive linebacker group.

4. Defensive Back: Addressing Secondary Depth

While Tennessee has a strong secondary, there have been concerns about depth, especially in the face of injuries or mismatches against fast, athletic wide receivers. As the SEC continues to showcase high-powered offenses, Tennessee will need more reliable playmakers in the secondary to remain competitive. Adding depth and experience to the defensive backfield through the transfer portal is a top priority for Tennessee, especially after losing some key contributors to the NFL draft.

One name that has stood out is Javon Banks, a cornerback from Michigan State who has already impressed scouts with his athleticism and ball skills. Banks has excellent size for a cornerback and the ability to match up with some of the top wide receivers in the SEC. His quickness and ability to read the quarterback’s eyes make him a potential game-changer in the secondary. Tennessee would benefit from his experience in big games and his ability to make plays in crucial moments. With the Volunteers’ secondary needing a reliable, shut-down corner, Banks could fill that role and solidify Tennessee’s defense as a whole.

Tennessee has also shown interest in Caden Curry, a versatile safety from Notre Dame. Curry has the versatility to play both cornerback and safety, which would provide Tennessee with additional flexibility in its defensive schemes. His athleticism and ability to read offenses make him a valuable target for a secondary that needs to improve in coverage. Curry’s leadership and experience could also be a great asset as Tennessee looks to compete against some of the SEC’s top passing offenses.

5. Quarterback Depth: Building for the Future

While Tennessee has a solid starting quarterback in Joe Milton III, the Volunteers have been keeping an eye on quarterbacks in the transfer portal to add depth behind him. With the possibility of injury and the ever-present nature of player attrition, having a strong backup quarterback is crucial for any program looking to compete for championships.

One quarterback who has garnered attention from Tennessee is Zach Pyron, a former Georgia Tech quarterback who entered the portal after a solid stint as the Yellow Jackets’ starter. Pyron, who has demonstrated strong passing accuracy and the ability to lead an offense, could be a great developmental option for Tennessee. Adding Pyron to the fold would give Tennessee valuable depth at quarterback, ensuring that the team is prepared in case of injury or in the event that Milton moves on to the NFL after the season.

6. Special Teams: Improving Kicking Game

Tennessee’s special teams unit has generally been solid, but there is always room for improvement. In particular, the kicking game has been a focus of attention, as the Volunteers look to ensure that their special teams can help win games in tight situations. The Volunteers have been monitoring Brock McFadden, a placekicker from Western Kentucky, who has made a name for himself with his consistency and ability to handle pressure situations. McFadden’s leg strength and ability to convert long-distance kicks would provide Tennessee with added reliability in key moments.