After missing out on Sam Leavitt, Ty Simpson, and Beau Pribula, Tennessee fans have been anxiously watching the quarterback carousel spin, hoping Josh Heupel would make a move to bolster the room. The latest name to catch their attention? Darian Mensah, the talented Duke transfer who just officially entered the portal.
But according to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, Tennessee’s not jumping into the Mensah sweepstakes. Despite the buzz and fan-driven campaigns on social media urging Heupel to pursue the veteran QB, the Vols are standing pat.
And that decision speaks volumes.
Mensah isn’t just another name in the portal. He’s a proven playmaker with nearly 7,000 passing yards and 56 touchdowns in just two seasons.
That kind of production doesn’t grow on trees, especially at a time when the quarterback market is thinning fast. So if Heupel is passing on a player like that, it’s a strong signal he believes in what’s already in Knoxville.
That belief likely centers around two names: George MacIntyre and Faizon Brandon.
Both young quarterbacks have generated plenty of internal optimism, and Heupel appears ready to roll the dice on one of them leading the Vols into 2026. It’s a bold move, especially in the SEC, where experience under center often separates contenders from pretenders. But it also shows a long-term vision that could pay off in a big way.
At this point, Tennessee isn’t expected to land a starting-caliber quarterback from the portal. The focus, instead, will likely shift to adding a veteran presence - someone who can serve as a steady backup and mentor, not necessarily someone expected to take the first snap of the season.
That leaves the door wide open for MacIntyre or Brandon to seize the job.
MacIntyre, with a year in Heupel’s system already under his belt, might have the early edge heading into spring ball. He’s had time to absorb the playbook, build chemistry, and get a feel for the speed of the college game.
But don’t count out Brandon. He’s got the tools, and if he puts together a strong spring, the competition could get real interesting.
This is the kind of quarterback battle that shapes not just a season, but a program’s trajectory. Sure, there might be growing pains in 2026. But if one of these young guys blossoms into a star, Tennessee could be setting itself up for something bigger down the road - think SEC titles, maybe even a playoff run.
Heupel’s decision not to chase Mensah might feel like a missed opportunity in the short term. But in the long run, it could be the kind of bet that defines his tenure in Knoxville.