Tennessee officially has a need at running back. Peyton Lewis, a two-year contributor for the Volunteers, plans to enter the transfer portal. The 6-1, 215 pound back was a 4-star prospect in the class of 2023, coming to Knoxville as one of the top prospects at his position.
Lewis never really found his footing at Tennessee, playing behind Dylan Sampson as a true freshman. He ran for 339 yards in 2024, but just 290 in 2025. Lewis only averaged 4.1 yards per carry, falling behind both DeSean Bishop and Star Thomas on the depth chart. The Virginia native scored ten touchdowns during his two seasons at Tennessee.
With Star Thomas also leaving, Tennessee is left with DeSean Bishop, Daune Morris and Justin Baker. The Volunteers did not sign a running back in the class of 2026, meaning they’ll be hitting the transfer portal to round out the depth. They did a similar thing last season, landing Thomas out of the portal from Duke.
Lewis will have two seasons worth of eligibility remaining at his next destination. The transfer portal officially opens on January 2nd.
