Another big-time Tennessee football name is off to the transfer portal. Caleb Herring, an edge rusher at the Vols’ LEO position, is departing from the program after three years, according to On3. He will have one remaining season of eligibility.
Herring was the second-string LEO this past season behind Joshua Josephs. He recorded 14 tackles, six tackles for loss and four sacks this season, while playing in all 13 games. This is at the LEO position that has already produced NFL talent in Byron Young and James Pearce Jr., with Josephs considered a potential first-round pick this year.
Herring played in 12 games during the 2024 season, as well, posting eight tackles and a tackle for loss. As a freshman in 2023, he played in 11 games and had one tackle for loss, one sack and forced one fumble.
He is the younger brother of former Vols linebacker Elijah Herring, who transferred to Memphis, then Florida State to round out his career.
More From RTI: Former Tennessee Defensive Transfer Returning to the Transfer Portal
This leaves just Jordan Ross at the LEO position for Tennessee on the current roster among contributors. Kellen Lindstrom, the fourth-string player in the room, is also headed to the portal alongside Herring. Josephs is headed to the draft, but was out of eligibility anyway.
Ross was a five-star recruit out of high school before playing a reserve role as a freshman in 2024. In his sophomore year, he posted 23 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks. He also forced and recovered a fumble.
The Vols will be looking for plenty of defensive talent to add to the unit in Jim Knowles’ first season as defensive coordinator. One of these spots is likely edge rusher to help bolster the room.
