Tennessee's 2025 Hopes Rely on Portal Transfers

LSU Defensive Lineman Jay’Viar Suggs

Jay’Viar Suggs is on a quest to find a home for his seventh and final year in college football. After spending five seasons at Grand Valley State, including a redshirt year and a season canceled due to COVID in 2020, he transferred to LSU. In 2024, he played in every game of the regular season, showcasing his skills. Standing at 6 - foot - 3 and weighing 295 pounds, he has one season of eligibility remaining. During the 2024 season at LSU, he recorded 10 tackles, three tackles - for - loss, and 2.5 sacks. In 2023 at Grand Valley State, he amassed 21 tackles, 7.5 tackles - for - loss, five sacks, two quarterback hurries, and one forced fumble. His experience and potential make him a valuable addition to Tennessee's defense.

Suggs brings a wealth of knowledge and on - field prowess, which could significantly enhance Tennessee's defensive line. His ability to make plays and disrupt opposing offenses makes him a key target for the Vols as they look to strengthen their defensive unit for the upcoming season.

Wisconsin Defensive End James Thompson

James Thompson was a two - year starter at Wisconsin before facing a season - ending pectoral muscle tear in 2024. Standing at 6 - 5 and weighing 295 pounds, he played 38 games with 18 starts for the Badgers, mostly in 2022 - 2023. During this time, he recorded 58 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, five sacks, and one fumble recovery. In 2023 alone, he led all Wisconsin defensive linemen with 29 tackles, along with three sacks and 5.5 tackles for loss.

Thompson's experience and talent make him an attractive prospect for Tennessee. His ability to generate pressure on the quarterback and make tackles in the backfield could provide a much - needed boost to the Vols' defense. With one season of eligibility remaining, he has the opportunity to make a significant impact at Tennessee.

Arizona Offensive Guard Wendell Moe

Wendell Moe was an All - Pac - 12 performer as a redshirt freshman in 2023. He played a crucial role as an anchor on the Arizona offensive line in 2024, logging 760 snaps. Over three seasons with the Wildcats, he started 27 games, mostly at left guard but also at right guard. Standing at 6 - 2 and weighing 339 pounds, he has two seasons of eligibility remaining.

Moe's connection to Tennessee is notable. He is from Long Beach, California, and played at Long Beach Poly in high school. This similarity may resonate with Tennessee fans, as quarterback Nico Iamaleava is also from Long Beach and played his high school freshman season at Long Beach Poly. Moe stated that he didn't know Iamaleava personally but spent time with him during his visit to Tennessee's campus. His presence could add stability and experience to Tennessee's offensive line.