If there’s one clear win for Tennessee this offseason, it’s the roster overhaul. Between major transfer portal additions and what appears to be Josh Heupel’s strongest recruiting class since taking over in Knoxville, the Vols have successfully retooled the roster heading into the next season.
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The highlight of the offseason was the big-time coordinator hire. Tennessee added Jim Knowles, who helped bring over a lot of talent from Penn State, while also aggressively targeting big-name players in the transfer portal. ESPN even took notice of the reshaped defense and the top high school class, with the Vols landing four players on its Top-100 newcomers list.
Tennessee’s newcomers showed up strong in the list, led by former Penn State defensive tackle Xavier Gilliam at No. 20. Five-star freshman quarterback Faizon Brandon followed closely at No. 22, with edge rusher Chaz Coleman at No. 27. Rounding things out, former Auburn cornerback Kayin Lee landed at No. 68.
Tennessee football with four players on ESPN's list
I’ll take “things you love to see” for 1000, Ken. This is a very positive takeaway, as the national media is buying into the fact that Tennessee completely reloaded the defense this season. If the offense can pull its weight, which it should with average quarterback play, the Tennessee team has the potential to be a dark-horse playoff contender.
I loved the addition of Gilliam from the beginning, but it’s looking even better now. He can clog rushing lanes on the inside and also rush the passer, as he posted 12 pressures as a nose tackle last season. He will help Tennessee with run fits, something they struggled with last season, while also providing interior pass rush. Hopefully, Chaz Coleman stays with the team, as there were rumors he had been dismissed, but it sounds like that is not true. A duo of Coleman and Gilloiam would be big time for the front of Knowles' defense. Both players have the potential to take big steps in 2026.
Kayin Lee, on the other hand, was a really solid pickup that might have gone under the radar. While at Auburn, he was never a star, but he was a reliable player with over 30 games of SEC experience. Pairing him next to Ty Redmond should give Tennessee a pair of tough cornerbacks who can play man coverage.
Brandon was obviously a huge addition, but in 2026 he’s still facing an uphill battle. Even the best true freshmen can struggle at times, and that’s perfectly normal. That said, he’s shown real swagger and confidence. He looks physically ready and has the mentality to go out there and compete. Right now, he seems to be in the lead for the job, and going forward, he should continue to develop and improve as he learns the Heupel system. If he can flash and take care of the football next fall, Tennessee could have a really good season.
Maybe the Vols are being slept on in 2026. Only time will tell.
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