The Tennessee Vols are reportedly in the mix to add a highly coveted transfer offensive lineman to their roster. According to On3’s Pete Nakos, USC offensive lineman Emmanuel Pregnon is scheduled to visit Tennessee as he explores his next move in the college football landscape. The 6-foot-5, 320-pound lineman, originally from Denver, Colorado, has been a versatile and highly effective player throughout his career, playing at multiple positions on the offensive line, and now he’s looking for a new program to continue his college football journey.
Pregnon’s transfer to Tennessee comes at a pivotal time for the Vols, who are expected to undergo significant changes on their offensive line heading into the 2025 season. As Tennessee prepares for the next chapter under head coach Josh Heupel, the addition of a player with Pregnon’s talent could significantly improve the Vols’ offensive line depth and overall strength, especially with several key departures after the 2024 season.
Before his time at USC, Pregnon began his collegiate career at Wyoming, where he had a standout tenure as a starter. He was regarded as one of the best offensive linemen in the Mountain West Conference, earning recognition for his play, particularly as a guard. According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), Pregnon was ranked as the No. 3 guard in the Mountain West while at Wyoming, and his performance on the field didn’t go unnoticed by larger programs. Pregnon transferred to USC in time for the 2023 season, where he became a key piece of the Trojans’ offensive line.
In his first season at USC, Pregnon played in all 13 games for the Trojans, making a noticeable impact. He earned a reputation for his prowess as a pass blocker, finishing the season as USC’s highest-graded pass blocker according to PFF. His consistency and ability to protect the quarterback stood out throughout the season, and his skill set earned him recognition as one of the more formidable offensive linemen in the Pac-12. Despite the Trojans’ up-and-down season, Pregnon’s individual performance remained a bright spot, helping him gain significant attention from other programs as he now looks to transfer for his final years of eligibility.
Pregnon’s time at USC has solidified his standing as a top-tier offensive lineman, and his combination of size, technique, and versatility has made him an attractive transfer option for several programs. In addition to Tennessee, the transfer portal has seen interest from several other schools, including Colorado, Ole Miss, and Oregon. This high level of interest speaks to Pregnon’s abilities on the field and his potential to contribute to a program looking to bolster its offensive line for the upcoming season.
Tennessee’s offensive line is going to look quite different in 2025, with several key players moving on to the NFL after the 2024 season. Guard Javontez Spraggins, offensive tackle John Campbell, and center Cooper Mays will all exhaust their eligibility, leaving a significant gap to fill along the line. Tennessee has been one of the most potent offensive teams in the SEC under Heupel’s leadership, and ensuring that the offensive line maintains its strength and depth will be a key priority for the Vols heading into the 2025 season.
To address these departures, Tennessee has already made strides in securing replacements and bolstering the offensive line with experienced talent. One of the most notable additions is former LSU offensive lineman Lance Heard, who will be returning to Tennessee in 2025 after playing left tackle for the Vols during the 2024 season. Heard, a talented lineman with extensive SEC experience, will provide stability and leadership to Tennessee’s offensive front. His familiarity with the system and the program will make him a key piece of the puzzle for Tennessee as they look to maintain a high level of offensive production.
Additionally, the Vols are set to welcome five-star offensive lineman David Sanders as a true freshman in 2025. Sanders, a highly rated prospect, is expected to start at right tackle for Tennessee, providing immediate help along the line. However, it’s possible that Sanders and Heard could flip sides depending on how spring and fall practices unfold, adding further flexibility to the Vols’ offensive line. The competition and decisions during the offseason will ultimately determine the starting five, but the addition of Pregnon could further influence how the line shapes up for the 2025 season.
Pregnon’s skill set could be an ideal fit for Tennessee’s offensive line needs, particularly as the Vols seek to maintain their offensive success after the departure of several key players. Known for his ability to pass block, Pregnon would provide immediate help in protecting the quarterback and ensuring that the passing game remains as effective as it has been under Heupel’s system. Tennessee’s fast-paced, high-powered offense requires a solid and consistent offensive line, and Pregnon has shown that he can be a reliable force in that regard.
Tennessee’s offensive line, with the combination of experienced returnees and new talent like Pregnon, will be crucial in maintaining the Vols’ offensive efficiency in 2025. With Heupel’s system, the offensive line’s ability to protect the quarterback and open lanes for the running game will be vital to sustaining the Vols’ success. Pregnon’s addition could help provide the depth and skill that the offensive line will need to excel in the SEC.
As Tennessee’s coaching staff continues to evaluate Pregnon’s potential fit within their system, they will be looking for more than just a player who can step in and contribute immediately. They will be seeking a player who has the potential to make a long-term impact on the offensive line, helping the Vols continue their offensive dominance in the SEC. Pregnon’s versatility, ability to play multiple positions along the line, and strong track record make him an appealing option as Tennessee prepares for the future.
The decision to transfer to Tennessee comes at a pivotal time for Pregnon, and his visit to Knoxville will be an important part of the recruitment process. As Tennessee looks to fill gaps left by departing seniors and maintain its high level of play, Pregnon’s addition could be a significant step forward for the Vols. Whether he eventually decides to transfer to Tennessee or choose another program, his visit marks a crucial moment in the Vols’ quest to continue building one of the most formidable offensive lines in the SEC. With the 2025 season on the horizon, all eyes will be on Tennessee to see how the Vols continue to shape their roster for the upcoming year.
