As the Tennessee Volunteers prepare for the 2025 college football season, the team has undergone significant changes, particularly through the spring transfer portal. These additions and departures have reshaped the depth chart, influencing both the offensive and defensive units. Here’s an in-depth look at how the roster is shaping up for the upcoming season.
🏈 Quarterback
Projected Starter: Jake Merklinger (Redshirt Freshman)
Backup: George MacIntyre (Freshman)New York Post+1Reuters+1University of Tennessee Athletics+2Reuters+2New York Post+2
With Nico Iamaleava’s departure due to NIL-related issues, the quarterback position is in a state of flux. Jake Merklinger is expected to take the reins as the starting quarterback, with George MacIntyre stepping into the backup role. The team is also exploring options to bring in additional talent through the transfer portal to bolster the position.Rocky Top Talk+2Reuters+2New York Post+2
🏈 Running Back
Projected Starter: Star Thomas (Transfer from Duke)
Backup: Desean Bishop (Redshirt Sophomore)
Third String: Justin Baker (Freshman)SI+6Rocky Top Talk+6University of Tennessee Athletics+6SI+1University of Tennessee Athletics+1
The running back room has seen significant turnover, with Dylan Sampson moving on to the NFL and Cameron Seldon transferring. Star Thomas, a transfer from Duke, is anticipated to lead the backfield. Desean Bishop and freshman Justin Baker are expected to provide depth and competition for playing time.SI+1Rocky Top Talk+1
🏈 Wide Receiver
X Receiver: Chris Brazzell (Junior)
Z Receiver: Mike Matthews (Sophomore)
Slot: Amari Jefferson (Transfer from Alabama)Rocky Top Talk+1Saturday Down South+1University of Tennessee Athletics+3SI+3Rocky Top Talk+3
The wide receiver corps has undergone a transformation with the departures of key players. Chris Brazzell and Mike Matthews are set to lead the receiving group, with Amari Jefferson, a transfer from Alabama, expected to make an immediate impact in the slot position. Freshmen Travis Smith Jr. and Radarius Jackson will add depth and competition to the unit.Saturday Down South+2Rocky Top Talk+2SI+2SI+1University of Tennessee Athletics+1
🏈 Offensive Line
Left Tackle: David Sanders Jr. (Freshman)
Left Guard: Wendell Moe Jr. (Transfer from Arizona)
Center: Antoni Ogumoro (Freshman)
Right Guard: Nic Moore (Freshman)
Right Tackle: Sam Pendleton (Transfer from Notre Dame)SI+2University of Tennessee Athletics+2Yardbarker+2
The offensive line has experienced significant changes with the departure of several starters. Freshman David Sanders Jr. is expected to step in at left tackle, while transfers Wendell Moe Jr. and Sam Pendleton are anticipated to contribute immediately at left guard and right tackle, respectively. Freshmen Antoni Ogumoro and Nic Moore will provide depth and competition along the line.
🏈 Defensive Line
Defensive Ends: Isaiah Campbell (Freshman), Mariyon Dye (Freshman)
Defensive Tackle: Christian Gass (Freshman)
Nose Tackle: Jayden Loftin (Freshman)SI+1University of Tennessee Athletics+1University of Tennessee Athletics
The defensive line is being rebuilt with the addition of several highly regarded freshmen. Isaiah Campbell and Mariyon Dye are expected to contribute immediately at defensive end, while Christian Gass and Jayden Loftin will provide depth at defensive tackle and nose tackle, respectively.
🏈 Linebacker
Outside Linebackers: Brenden Anes (Freshman), Jadon Perlotte (Freshman)
Inside Linebacker: Jaedon Harmon (Freshman)University of Tennessee Athletics
The linebacker corps is undergoing a youth movement with the addition of several freshmen. Brenden Anes and Jadon Perlotte are expected to compete for starting roles at outside linebacker, while Jaedon Harmon will provide depth and competition at inside linebacker.Saturday Down South+4SI+4Reuters+4University of Tennessee Athletics
🏈 Defensive Back
Cornerbacks: Colton Hood (Transfer from Colorado), Jermod McCoy (Junior)
Safeties: Andre Turrentine (Senior), Jakobe Thomas (Senior)
Star: Boo Carter (Junior)Wikipedia+3Rocky Top Talk+3Reuters+3
The secondary has seen significant changes with the addition of transfer Colton Hood from Colorado. Jermod McCoy is expected to return from injury and contribute immediately. Andre Turrentine and Jakobe Thomas will provide experience at safety, while Boo Carter is expected to continue his role at the STAR position.
🏈 Special Teams
Kicker: Jace Feely (Junior)
Punter: Jackson Ross (Senior)
Return Specialist: Boo Carter (Junior)
The special teams unit remains largely unchanged, with Jace Feely returning as the kicker and Jackson Ross handling punting duties. Boo Carter is expected to continue his role as the return specialist.
The Tennessee Volunteers have undergone significant changes through the spring transfer portal, reshaping their roster for the 2025 season. With a mix of experienced transfers and talented freshmen, the team is poised to compete at a high level in the Southeastern Conference.
