Tennessee just got a little stronger in the trenches.
The Vols picked up a key addition to their offensive line this morning, landing a commitment from former West Virginia guard Donovan Haslam. The 6-foot-4, 330-pounder was in Knoxville on Thursday, getting a feel for the campus and meeting with the coaching staff. Just a couple days later, he’s decided to suit up in orange and white.
Haslam becomes Tennessee’s 12th transfer portal pickup this cycle-and just the second along the offensive line. That’s notable, especially when you consider how valuable versatile, experienced linemen are in today’s game.
Haslam logged 444 snaps last season for the Mountaineers, showing his flexibility by playing multiple positions across the line. He started five games in 2025 and spent the three previous years with Austin Peay, building a solid foundation of experience before making the jump to Power Five football.
Now, after wrapping up his redshirt junior season, Haslam brings one final year of eligibility to Rocky Top-and he’s walking into a room that already has some established pieces.
Tennessee returns starters Jesse Perry and Wendell Moe, two anchors who bring continuity to the interior. LSU transfer Ory Williams is expected to slide into the right tackle spot, while incoming 5-star freshman Gabriel Osenda could also make a push for early reps.
That’s where Haslam’s value comes in. He may not be penciled in as a starter right away, but he gives offensive line coach Glen Elarbee a dependable, battle-tested option who can step in at either guard spot-and potentially even at right tackle if needed.
It’s the kind of depth move that doesn’t always make headlines, but can make a difference when injuries hit or rotations shift late in the season. Haslam’s presence adds competition to the room, and in the SEC, you can never have too much of that.
And Tennessee’s not done yet. More visitors are on campus this weekend, and the Vols still have needs to address at quarterback, running back, defensive line, and cornerback. Portal season isn’t over-and Tennessee looks like it’s still in the thick of the action.
