Tennessee LB Jalen Smith Enters Transfer Portal with Three Years of Eligibility Remaining
Tennessee Volunteers linebacker Jalen Smith has officially announced his intention to enter the NCAA transfer portal, shaking up the college football landscape as teams look to bolster their rosters ahead of the 2025 season. The 6’2”, 225-pound sophomore, who played in all 12 games for the Vols in 2024, brings a proven track record and significant upside to the table. Smith tallied 34 tackles, including 4 tackles for loss (TFL), during the season, showcasing his ability to be a disruptive force on defense.
Smith’s decision to transfer comes as a surprise to many, as he was an integral part of Tennessee’s defensive rotation. With three years of eligibility remaining, he instantly becomes one of the most intriguing defensive players in the transfer portal, drawing interest from programs across the country.
Jalen Smith joined the Volunteers as part of the 2023 recruiting class, a three-star prospect out of Loganville, Georgia. Despite being slightly under the radar during recruitment, Smith quickly made his presence felt in Knoxville, earning playing time early in his career. His blend of size, speed, and instincts allowed him to contribute in both run-stopping and pass-rushing situations.
In the 2024 season, Smith took a step forward, appearing in all 12 games and providing consistent production for Tennessee’s defense. His 34 tackles and 4 TFL were evidence of his versatility and ability to impact the game in various ways. Coaches praised his work ethic, physicality, and football IQ, making his decision to transfer a significant loss for the Volunteers.
While the exact reasons for Smith’s decision to transfer remain unclear, several factors may have influenced his choice. The increasingly competitive nature of college football has seen players utilize the transfer portal as a means to find better opportunities, whether it’s for increased playing time, a chance to compete for championships, or exposure in a different system that better suits their skill set.
For Smith, the move could be about seeking a more prominent role in a defensive scheme where he can thrive. Tennessee’s depth at linebacker may have limited his ability to fully showcase his potential, prompting him to explore other options. Additionally, with three years of eligibility remaining, Smith has ample time to find a program where he can make a long-term impact.
As Smith enters the transfer portal, he’s likely to attract significant interest from programs looking to add a proven linebacker with high upside. His versatility makes him an asset in multiple defensive schemes, whether as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 defense or a traditional inside linebacker in a 4-3 alignment.
Programs in need of defensive depth or looking to replace outgoing talent will undoubtedly take notice. Teams in the SEC, Big Ten, and even ACC could be potential landing spots, as Smith’s experience in the highly competitive SEC makes him a valuable commodity.
For the Volunteers, losing Smith is a notable setback as they look to build on their 2024 campaign. While Tennessee has recruited well in recent years, depth at linebacker is always a concern, especially in a conference as physical as the SEC. Head coach Josh Heupel and defensive coordinator Tim Banks will need to evaluate their options, whether by promoting from within or finding reinforcements in the transfer portal themselves.
Tennessee’s defensive unit, which showed flashes of promise this past season, will now need to adjust without one of its rising contributors. Smith’s departure underscores the volatility of modern college football rosters, where player movement has become increasingly common.
Jalen Smith’s entry into the transfer portal is a significant development, not just for Tennessee but for college football as a whole. With his combination of experience, talent, and eligibility, Smith has the potential to be a game-changing addition for his next team.
As the transfer portal heats up, Smith’s decision will be closely watched by fans, analysts, and coaches alike. Wherever he lands, his new team will be gaining a player capable of making an immediate and lasting impact. For Tennessee, it’s a reminder of the challenges of retaining talent in an era where opportunities abound for ambitious athletes.