The Tennessee Volunteers are making moves in the transfer portal, and one of the most significant developments involves a coveted transfer interior offensive lineman. According to On3’s Pete Nakos, Emmanuel Pregnon, a 6-foot-5, 320-pound offensive lineman from Denver, Colorado, is scheduled to visit Tennessee. Pregnon, who has previously played for both Wyoming and USC, has been a notable figure in college football and has several programs competing for his services, with Colorado, Ole Miss, and Oregon also in the mix.
Pregnon’s recruitment and visit to Tennessee have generated significant attention, particularly given his impressive resume. After beginning his career at Wyoming, Pregnon made a move to USC for the 2023 season, where he made an immediate impact on the Trojans’ offensive line. His combination of size, strength, and ability to protect the quarterback has made him one of the more sought-after interior linemen in the transfer portal.
At 6-foot-5 and 320 pounds, Pregnon has the physical tools to be an impactful player on the offensive line. His size allows him to be a force in both pass protection and run blocking, giving him the versatility to fit in a variety of offensive schemes. He has demonstrated the ability to play both guard and tackle, with most of his time spent at left guard. His versatility and ability to adapt to different positions on the offensive line could make him an attractive addition to any program looking to solidify its front five.
During his time at Wyoming, Pregnon proved to be one of the top offensive linemen in the Mountain West Conference. He was graded as the No. 3 guard in the conference by Pro Football Focus (PFF), an impressive achievement that highlights his ability to dominate at the line of scrimmage. His performance at Wyoming set the stage for his transfer to USC, where he continued to improve and showcase his abilities in one of the top conferences in college football.
At USC, Pregnon further solidified his reputation as a top-tier interior lineman. He played in all 13 games for the Trojans in the 2023 season, which speaks to his durability and consistency. According to PFF, Pregnon was USC’s highest-graded pass blocker during the season, underscoring his ability to protect the quarterback in a high-pressure environment. The Trojans’ offense, known for its potent passing attack, relied on strong pass protection, and Pregnon’s contributions were critical to that success. His ability to excel in this area is particularly noteworthy because pass protection is one of the most important skills for an offensive lineman, especially in an offense that prioritizes the passing game.
Pregnon’s ability to protect the quarterback and his success in pass blocking are major selling points for any program vying for his commitment. Tennessee, with its up-tempo, pass-heavy offense, could benefit immensely from adding a player like Pregnon to their offensive line. The Vols have been known for their dynamic passing game under head coach Josh Heupel, and adding a lineman who excels in pass protection would only serve to strengthen their offensive front.
Additionally, Tennessee has been looking to bolster its offensive line depth, especially after some key departures and players moving on from the program. With Pregnon’s experience and ability to perform at a high level in both pass protection and run blocking, he would provide immediate help and be a key addition to Tennessee’s offensive line for the 2024 season.
Pregnon’s time at USC has exposed him to some of the best defensive talent in the country, and he has proven himself capable of holding his own against top-tier competition. Playing in the Pac-12 provided Pregnon with the opportunity to face off against some of the most talented defensive linemen in college football, and his success in doing so further underscores his readiness to contribute at a high level. With the Vols competing in the SEC, a conference known for its elite defensive lines, Pregnon’s experience against strong defenses could prove invaluable. He would bring a level of toughness and know-how to Tennessee’s offensive line that could help the Vols compete at the highest level.
As Tennessee prepares for Pregnon’s visit, it is clear that they are serious about strengthening their offensive line and improving their overall roster through the transfer portal. The addition of Pregnon would be a major coup for the program, not only because of his talent but also because of his experience at two major programs—Wyoming and USC. His ability to contribute immediately, as well as his leadership potential, would be a huge asset for the Vols as they continue to build towards their goal of competing for SEC championships and national titles.
However, Tennessee is not the only program vying for Pregnon’s services. Colorado, Ole Miss, and Oregon are also in the mix, and all of these programs bring unique advantages and opportunities for the transfer lineman. Colorado, under head coach Deion Sanders, has become one of the most talked-about programs in college football, with Sanders looking to build a powerhouse in the Pac-12 and beyond. Ole Miss, with its high-powered offense, could also be an appealing destination for Pregnon, as the Rebels are known for their strong offensive line play. Oregon, too, has established itself as a perennial contender in the Pac-12, and the Ducks have a reputation for producing elite offensive linemen.
Given the level of competition for his commitment, Tennessee will need to make a strong case to Pregnon during his visit. The Vols’ offensive line has made significant strides under Heupel’s staff, and the program’s upward trajectory could be a selling point for Pregnon as he looks to make an impact in his final years of college football. Tennessee’s style of play, emphasis on quarterback protection, and commitment to winning at a high level could all factor into Pregnon’s decision.
Ultimately, Pregnon’s visit to Tennessee is a critical moment in the Vols’ pursuit of improving their offensive line. With several teams in the hunt for his services, it will be up to Tennessee to showcase what makes their program the best fit for his talents. If the Vols are able to secure his commitment, it would be a major victory for the program and a significant step toward building a more formidable offensive line.
In conclusion, Emmanuel Pregnon is one of the most coveted offensive linemen in the transfer portal, and his visit to Tennessee could be a game-changer for the Vols. His experience, size, and ability to excel in pass protection make him an ideal fit for Tennessee’s offense, and his addition would help solidify the Vols’ offensive line heading into the 2024 season. As Pregnon weighs his options and considers his future, Tennessee will look to make its case as the best place for him to continue his college football career and help the Vols reach new heights.
