Tennessee football enters a new offseason challenge after losing a former highly-touted 4-star defensive end, Caleb Herring, a departure that could create a significant gap in the Volunteers’ defensive depth heading into 2026.
Who's leaving and who's joining: Tennessee football's 2026 Transfer Portal tracker
Herring started in the Music City Bowl for the Vols after Joshua Joseph declared for the NFL Draft, but he struggled to make an impact, recording no tackles in 50 snaps against Illinois. Pro Football Focus gave him a below-average grade for his performance, rating him at 55.4.
In 2025, Herring had 14 tackles, four sacks, and two passes defended. His overall grade for the 2025 season by PFF was 54.3. This move hurts, as Herring was expected to step up in 2026. He certainly had his flaws, but Herring always had a knack for being able to rush the passer, a valuable asset in today's brand of football.
NEW: Tennessee EDGE Caleb Herring plans to enter the NCAA transfer portal.
— Transfer Portal (@TransferPortal) January 2, 2026
Herring totaled 14 tackles and 4 sacks this season.https://t.co/cUXhuMOZMQ pic.twitter.com/7BiS7RH0B3
Caleb Herring is gone and Tennessee needs EDGE help
Former 5-star Jordan Ross will now be asked to step up. The former blue-chip prospect has flashed, but still isn't a complete player. Tennessee will likely get a proven starter to help the edge position, but the rest of the depth will need to take their game to a new level in 2026.
The encouraging part is that the Vols have been linked to the number one-ranked edge in the portal, Chaz Coleman. Landing the Penn State product will be a very difficult task, with Ohio State and LSU also firmly in the mix.
Don’t be shocked if we hear more rumblings about top defensive line talent being linked to Tennessee. This position will be a significant point of emphasis moving forward for the Vols.