In today’s era of college football, it’s rare that a team’s roster looks very similar to what it did in the regular season once bowl games roll around. With one group opting out to focus on their budding pro career and another leaving for the transfer portal, rotations get thinner and younger players often get more opportunities.
In the case of Tennessee football for its upcoming game against Illinois in the Music City Bowl, it’s already gotten some answers about who will and won’t play. As far as opt-outs for the NFL draft, cornerback Jermod McCoy, wide receiver Chris Brazzell II and linebacker Arion Carter are all off to the pros.
“You get to the end of the season, we’re in a bowl, the players are going through the process and we want to be there to help them and support them and help collect information,” Josh Heupel said on those three players. “At the end of the day, it’s always about what the right decision is for the player and the family and his future. And as long as he’s got all the information in front of them, we’re going support them. And I’m excited for those guys that they have the chance to the next level. They’re all going to play at the next level and help them through this journey.”
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Other players that could ultimately opt out include LEO Joshua Josephs, cornerback Colton Hood and offensive tackle Lance Heard, though none have made an officiall announcement yet. However, quarterback Joey Aguilar said he intends to play in the game.
For transfers, UT has lost six to the portal so far. However, none have been key contributors with quarterback Jake Merklinger, defensive back Boo Carter, defensive lineman Jamal Wallace, edge rusher Kellen Lindstrom, linebacker Brenden Anes and defensive back Marcus Goree Jr. departing.
So, with just under two weeks until the bowl game, is Tennessee’s roster set for the matchup in Nashville? Heupel said it nearly is, he’s just awaiting a few more decisions. This could be the choices for Josephs, Hood and Heard, or players looking to see if they want to transfer ahead of the game.
“Pretty set right now with guys that are out there practicing and getting ready to go play in this one,” Heupel said. “And a couple guys are still making decisions on their futures and getting information. At the end of the day, as guys go through that, for us, for me and then for them, it’s always about making the right decision for them, their future, their career, their families and giving them good information.”
The Music City Bowl is scheduled for Dec. 30 at 5:30 p.m. ET in Nashville. The game will be played at Nissan Stadium and airs on ESPN. The transfer portal will officially open on Jan. 2, 2026.
