Vols' Defensive Depth Takes Hit as Schell Heads to Transfer Portal

The Tennessee Volunteers’ defensive line just got a little more uncertain, as freshman defensive lineman Josh Schell has decided to leave the program and explore his options through the NCAA transfer portal. This move comes after a season with the Vols in which he saw limited playing time. Schell originally transferred to Tennessee from Grand Valley State earlier this year, looking to take advantage of the opportunity to compete at the FBS level. Despite his arrival, however, Schell’s role on the team was seemingly predetermined by head coach Jeremy Pruitt and his defensive staff. With Schell now out of the picture, the Vols will have to find ways to address their defensive line woes without one of their top prospects. The program has struggled to develop a stout defensive front in recent years, and this latest development is likely to raise more questions than answers about the team’s chances for success on that side of the ball. As Schell begins his journey through the transfer portal, there will be plenty of eyes on him from across the country. Can he find a new home where he can truly contribute and make an impact? Only time will tell.