What's Happening?
Caleb Herring, a defensive lineman for the Tennessee Volunteers, has announced his decision to enter the transfer portal. Herring, who has one season of eligibility remaining, made the announcement on January 2, 2026. Over his three-year career with the Volunteers, Herring has played in 36 games, recording 25 tackles, eight tackles-for-loss, five sacks, and one forced fumble. In the 2025 season, he participated in all 13 regular-season games, achieving his best performance with 14 tackles, six tackles-for-loss, four sacks, and six quarterback hurries. Herring, originally from Newnan, Georgia, was a four-star recruit and a top-100 player in the 2023 class. His decision follows in the footsteps of his older brother, Elijah Herring, who also transferred
from Tennessee, first to Memphis and then to Florida State.
Why It's Important?
Caleb Herring's decision to enter the transfer portal is significant for both his career and the Tennessee Volunteers. As a top recruit and a key player in Tennessee's defensive lineup, his departure could impact the team's defensive strategy and depth. For Herring, transferring offers an opportunity to maximize his exposure and development in his final collegiate season, potentially increasing his prospects for a professional career. The move also highlights the growing trend of college athletes using the transfer portal to seek better opportunities, reflecting broader changes in college sports dynamics where athletes have more control over their careers.
What's Next?
As Caleb Herring enters the transfer portal, he will likely evaluate potential programs that can offer him a prominent role and exposure in his final college season. Interested programs will assess his performance and potential contribution to their defensive schemes. Meanwhile, Tennessee will need to adjust its defensive lineup to fill the gap left by Herring's departure. The Volunteers may look to recruit new talent or promote existing players to maintain their competitive edge in the upcoming season.
