A player at a big position of need for the Tennessee Vols just entered the NCAA transfer portal

The Tennessee Vols may want to show interest in a big-time player who just entered the NCAA transfer portal.

Zach Ragan Tennessee Volunteers News Writer
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USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

One of the biggest concerns for the Tennessee Vols in 2026 centers around the defensive line.

The Vols have defensive line talent, but it’s mostly unproven. It’s probably the biggest question mark on the defensive side of the ball.

Tennessee’s defensive line depth, specifically, is a concern. The Vols will likely be counting on some true freshmen — such as JJ Finch — to play a key role this fall.

SEC defensive lineman is reportedly entering the NCAA transfer portal

Thanks to a temporary restraining order from a judge in Louisiana this week, class of 2022 athletes who have spent time in NFL training camps this summer are now eligible to play college football.

Those athletes can also enter the transfer portal.

One player that could help Tennessee is former Ole Miss defensive lineman Zxavian Harris, who spent time in training camp with the New Orleans Saints this summer (he was waived earlier this month).

According to CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz, Harris is expected to enter the transfer portal.

Harris played a lot for Ole Miss last season (15 starts), and he showed up in big games (10 tackles in the Rebels’ win over Georgia in the College Football Playoff).

It’s unclear if Tennessee has any interest in Harris (or if Harris has interest in Tennessee), but given the Vols’ defensive line concerns, it makes sense for both sides to at least have a conversation to see if it’s a fit.

The one caveat here is that the NCAA is pushing back hard against this court ruling. They’re going to appeal, and no one has any idea how any of this will play out.

Tennessee could decide it’s not worth the hassle to bring in a player who could be deemed ineligible down the road.

Still, it’s something that I think Tennessee should at least explore. Harris is clearly a player who could help the Vols out this fall as long as this ruling stands.

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