If ever there was a time for Josh Heupel and Tennessee to be active in the transfer portal, it's going to be this January. There has been a ton of focus at quarterback for the Vols with Joey Aguilar potentially on his way out of town, but don't forget about the defensive side of the ball.
A prime QB to replace Joey Aguilar at Tennessee will enter the portal
And for the pass-rush, there's now a name heading to the transfer portal that everyone needs to keep a close eye on: Chaz Coleman. The freshman has said goodbye to Penn State and while Ohio State is the favorite to land his services in early January, keep in mind that Coleman had a close relationship with James Franklin.
He also developed a bond with veteran defensive coordinator Jim Knowles. Knowles is now the new DC for the Vols after saying goodbye to Happy Valley himself. Think he might be able to help out with the recruiting efforts? You've got that straight:
After much thought and consideration, I have decided to enter the transfer portal this coming January to pursue other opportunities. I’d like thank James Franklin and his staff for believing in me and teaching me what it means to believe in myself. https://t.co/zdOJSMfQpY
— Chaz Coleman (@chazcoleman_) December 18, 2025
Chaz Coleman transfer news: Tennessee should absolutely make a move
The Knowles connection here is really what will give the Vols a shot if Heupel does decide to pursue the youngster. Knowles was previously on staff at Ohio State, helping with the recruiting efforts there. While Coleman committed to Penn State, the two indeed were reunited when Knowles took over the PSU defense for Franklin.
Things didn't go to plan, however, as Franklin was fired midway through the season. Once Matt Campbell was brought in, the assumption was that Knowles would be packing his bags for a new city sooner rather than later. That news came in earlier this month, with Tennessee getting things done with him.
Knowles is going to hit the ground running and he's going to want to help turn things around. Tennessee made a change at DC too, firing Tim Banks. Banks just didn't get the job done for Tennessee this season, but there are high hopes for Knowles.
He could win over the fanbase if he works his magic with Coleman, who is ranked a 5-star transfer by 247Sports and the No. 1 player overall who's going to be entering the portal. Again, Ohio State is the perceived favorite, but if Tennessee decides to get involved, Knowles will give the SEC side a puncher's chance to get Coleman to Knoxville.