Football
Jan 11, 2026
Tennessee football adds Penn State transfer EDGE rusher Chaz Coleman. Here’s why this move matters, what he brings, and how it impacts the Vols. Photo by: WGAL
The Tennessee Volunteers just got a defensive boost, picking up former Penn State Nittany Lions defensive end Chaz Coleman from the NCAA transfer portal.

Coleman is known as one of the best edge rushers out there. He should really help Tennessee by bringing some serious pass-rushing skills to a position that really matters in the SEC.
If you're a Vols fan between 14 and 25, this is the kind of transfer that can quickly turn a defense around.
Detail | Information |
|---|---|
Player | Chaz Coleman |
Position | EDGE / Defensive End |
From | Penn State |
To | Tennessee |
Transfer Type | NCAA Transfer Portal |
Role | Immediate defensive contributor |
Tennessee beat out multiple programs for Coleman, making this a significant recruiting and portal win.

If you want to play defensive line at the next level, the SEC is where it's at. Great tape against SEC competition carries a lot of weight with pro scouts.
Tennessee was looking for someone who could consistently put pressure on opposing offenses. Coleman is walking into a situation where he can make an instant difference.
Tennessee's defense lets its edge rushers be quick, intense, and cause problems which is perfect for Coleman's skills.
Here's what someone might think about the move:
Penn State: “Solid production.”
Tennessee: “We can unlock more.”

Coleman isn’t just a depth addition, he’s a difference-maker.
Quick off the snap
Keeps rushers from turning the corner
Can play multiple pass-rushing roles
Has played against elite teams
Third Down Pressures: Can they get to the QB when it matters most?
Stopping Runs on the Outside: How well do they keep runners from getting to the edge?
Defensive Line Depth: Do they have enough good players to keep the pressure on all game long?
Skill | Impact |
|---|---|
Pass Rush | High |
Run Defense | Reliable |
Motor | Consistent |
Experience | SEC-ready |

This move shows what they're aiming for.
Tennessee isn't just patching up spots; they're bringing in better players through the portal.
Better pass rushing.
More adaptable defensive formations.
Less stress on younger players.
In the future, Coleman's addition should make Tennessee's defense better overall.

Losing Coleman is a blow for Penn State, especially with his experience.
But, the transfer portal is just part of the game now. Teams need to be able to bounce back fast, and Penn State usually does a good job with that.
Even so, this one hurts, especially for other Big Ten teams who are watching Tennessee get better.
Edge rushers are super important in today's college football.
Here's why:
They put pressure on quarterbacks.
They make quarterbacks rush their throws.
They can mess up an offense's whole strategy.
A great edge rusher can even cover up other problems on defense, and Tennessee knows this.

This transfer shows what college football is like now:
The transfer portal is a real strategy, not a quick fix.
Players want the right chance and fit.
Teams are always working on their rosters.
If you're a young fan following recruiting, Coleman’s move is a perfect example of making the best career choice.
Tennessee's acquisition of Chaz Coleman isn't just another transfer; it sends a message.
By grabbing one of the best pass rushers out there, the Volunteers are adding speed, experience, and the potential to create serious problems for opposing offenses.
For Tennessee fans, this is the kind of player that can help them win games. For the rest of the SEC, it's a reminder to watch out.
The Vols didn't just get deeper; they got more dangerous.