Tennessee football’s primary transfer portal efforts have come on the defensive side of the ball, with a little bit of offense sprinkled in, but there is still a need to add to special teams, as well. First, the Vols picked up Louisville kicker Cooper Ranvier on Thursday night.
Another spot UT is seemingly interested in adding a player to is long snapper. On Friday, Eastern Kentucky long snapper Blake Howard told RTI he has committed to Tennessee. Other schools to offer include Liberty, App State and UNLV.
“I’m a Vol!” Howard told RTI.
With Howard’s commitment to the Vols, it’s unlikely he’d be the starting long snapper next season. Tennessee returns Bennett Brady for his redshirt senior season after an effective first year as the starter. However, Howard holds two years of eligibility and could take over afterward.
Other long snappers on the roster for the Vols include John Rosen, who just completed his true freshman season. Linebacker Ryan Scott has also gotten some reps in at the position this year.
Tennessee Offered!! pic.twitter.com/0gTeA4H2w1
— BLAKE HOWARD⛓ (@Howard4Blake) January 7, 2026
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Even if Howard doesn’t instantly snap, he could still play a decent role. He possesses the skillset to play linebacker, which could add increased depth to the position group. He is also a willing special teams player who was a strong tackler from the long snapper position a year ago.
Howard has played two seasons with EKU, totalling 23 games played. On defense, he’s managed four combined tackles, but he was a consistent piece on special teams.
Before heading to EKU, he played his true freshman season at ETSU, giving him familiarity with the East Tennessee area. He is from Cincinnati, Ohio, where he played for Princeton High School.
