Tennessee football is making its presence felt in the transfer portal, actively pursuing plenty of top defensive talent today. The Vols have an elite safety with ties to the state visiting, and Chaz Coleman, the top edge rusher in the nation, is also very interested in the Vols. One position we haven't heard much about is linebacker, but there looks to be some movement there.
Elite RB who led the NCAA in yards is set to visit Tennessee
Tennessee football could get a boost in the linebacker corps soon, as an elite transfer portal prospect, Khmori House, plans visits to both the Vols and SEC foe Arkansas, CBS Sports' Matt Zenitz reports.
House is ranked as the No. 2 linebacker in the Transfer Portal according to Saturday Blitz. Josh Yourish raved about House's ability to cover multiple positions, while also being physical enough to get gritty in the run game. This is exactly what Tennessee needs in the middle of their defense.
North Carolina linebacker transfer Khmori House plans to visit Tennessee and Arkansas, his agency @APSportsAgency tells me, @chris_hummer and @CodyNagel247.
— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) January 2, 2026
Ranks as the fourth-best linebacker in the transfer portal. Tallied 78 tackles this season. https://t.co/K9OJHzgtsK pic.twitter.com/Bo9whB5FQq
Khmori House could change Tennessee's defensive outlook in 2026
Adding House, next to the talented freshman Edwin Spillman, could solve a lot of Tennessee's defensive issues. House makes a lot of sense for Tennessee. He started his career at Washington and was recruited by linebackers coach William Inge when he was in Seattle. Tennessee needs more help in the linebackers room, and he has an existing relationship with his position coach. This move would fit both parties well.
In 777 snaps at North Carolina in 2025, House had a tackling grade of 68.9 from Pro Football Focus. He would add the ability to be reliable in the run game and cover tight ends and running backs when dropping into coverage.
Arkansas has Ryan Silverfield now, so the Hogs could be tough to beat. House is looking for his third home in as many years, so he could be looking to help build a program with a new regime in Arkansas.
Jeremiah Telander is also back for 2026, but beyond him, the linebacker room lacks proven depth. House brings two more years of eligibility and already has significant experience, making him a valuable addition.
Tennessee has wasted no time making moves on day one of the transfer portal, and the good news is there’s plenty more visits to come. This January promises to be an exciting one for Vols fans, as Heupel looks to get Tennessee back to the College Football Playoffs.