The Tennessee Vols lost a 2023 starter to the NCAA transfer portal on Monday evening.
Junior linebacker Elijah Herring announced via Twitter/X.com that he plans to enter the portal this week.
The 15-day spring portal window opens on Tuesday.
“I’d like to thank Coach Heupel and the University of Tennessee for the opportunity to play in my home state,” wrote Herring in a tweet. “I appreciate all the support from the entire staff, my teammates, and fans. I have decided to enter the transfer portal and pursue other college opportunities. Love The Vols!”
Herring started the final 12 games of the season at linebacker after middle linebacker Keenan Pili suffered a season-ending injury in the Vols’ season-opener against Virginia. Herring totaled 80 tackles in 2023 (which led the team).
With Pili returning in 2024, Herring was likely heading for a backup role without much guaranteed playing time.
Herring’s younger brother, Caleb, is a sophomore edge rusher for Tennessee who’s received praise from head coach Josh Heupel this spring.