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Dave Wilson, ESPN Staff Writer
Tennessee linebacker Elijah Herring, who led the Vols in tackles last season, is entering the transfer portal, he announced Monday on social media.
“I’d like to thank Coach Huepel & the University of Tennessee for the opportunity to play in my home state,” Herring posted on X, formerly Twitter. “I appreciate all the support from the entire staff, my teammates, & fans. I have decided to enter the transfer portal & pursue other college opportunities. Love The Vols!”
I’d like to thank Coach Huepel & the University of Tennessee for the opportunity to play in my home state. I appreciate all the support from the entire staff, my teammates, & fans. I have decided to enter the transfer portal & pursue other college opportunities. Love The Vols!
— Elijah Herring (@ElijahHerring12) April 16, 2024
Herring entered last season as a backup to middle linebacker Keenan Pili, who suffered a season-ending injury against Virginia in the opener. Herring took over and started the next 11 games, finishing with 76 tackles (4 for a loss) with a career high of 8 against UConn and Alabama.
Linebackers coach Brian Jean-Mary left for Michigan this offseason and was replaced by Washington‘s William Inge. Inge told reporters this spring that he was evaluating each player’s role.
“After spring break getting into spring ball, I told everyone we’re going to all start with a clean slate,” Inge said.
Herring did not play in Saturday’s Orange & White game due to injury.
A 6-foot-3, 230-pound Tennessee native, Herring signed with the Volunteers as a three-star recruit from Murfreesboro. His brother, Caleb, is a sophomore defensive lineman for Tennessee.
Herring has two years of eligibility remaining.