Tennessee’s RB Room Is Getting Thin - Here Are Four Transfer Portal Targets Who Could Help
With Peyton Lewis hitting the transfer portal, Tennessee’s running back depth just took another hit - and it’s not one they can afford to ignore. Lewis wasn’t the featured back in 2025, but his departure leaves the Vols even more vulnerable heading into 2026.
Lewis finished the season with 70 carries for 290 yards and seven touchdowns, working behind DeSean Bishop and Star Thomas. Now, with Thomas out of eligibility and Lewis on the move, Tennessee’s running back room is down to just Bishop, Daune Morris, and Justin Baker.
And here’s the kicker: Josh Heupel didn’t sign a running back in the 2026 recruiting class. That means there’s no blue-chip freshman walking through the door to save the day.
So, what’s next? The transfer portal opens officially on January 2nd, and Tennessee will need to be active.
Whether they’re looking for a complementary piece or someone who can push for serious snaps, there are intriguing options out there. Let’s take a closer look at four running backs who could fit the Vols’ needs - and potentially reshape the backfield heading into next season.
Sutton Smith (Memphis) - The In-State Playmaker
If Tennessee wants to keep things local, Sutton Smith might be the most logical target. The Memphis product is coming off a season where his touches mysteriously decreased late in the year, but when he got the ball, he made things happen.
Smith posted 669 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on 102 carries in 2025. He also added 20 receptions for 109 yards and flashed game-breaking ability as a returner, including a 99-yard kick return touchdown.
He’s got just one year of eligibility left, but Smith brings versatility and experience. He’s a slasher who could complement Bishop nicely, especially in passing situations or as a change-of-pace option. And with his return ability, he could add value on special teams from Day 1.
Trequan Jones (Old Dominion) - The Hidden Gem
Trequan Jones might not be a household name, but his production at Old Dominion in 2025 should turn some heads. Jones rushed for 792 yards on just 105 carries - that’s a blistering 7.5 yards per carry, good for second-best in the FBS.
He’s a smaller, shiftier back with quick feet and the kind of burst that fits well in Tennessee’s up-tempo, spread-heavy offense. Like Smith, Jones can catch passes and contribute in the return game, giving the Vols another multi-dimensional threat out of the backfield.
He’s got one year of eligibility remaining and could thrive in a system that emphasizes speed and space. If Tennessee is looking for a plug-and-play weapon to keep the offense humming, Jones is worth a serious look.
Jahiem White (West Virginia) - The Proven Power Five Talent
Jahiem White brings something the others don’t: a track record of production at the Power Five level. He rushed for over 840 yards in both 2023 and 2024 at West Virginia, establishing himself as a reliable and explosive back in the Big 12.
But 2025 was a setback - White appeared in just two games due to injury. Now he’s in the portal looking to reestablish his value, and Tennessee could be the perfect landing spot.
He’s not a one-dimensional player. White can run, catch, and return kicks, and he’s got two years of eligibility left. While he may be aiming for a starting role, Tennessee could offer him a chance to ease back in without carrying the full load - and still play in a high-profile SEC offense.
If he’s healthy, White could be a steal.
Makhi Frazier (Michigan State) - The Power Option
If Tennessee is looking to add some toughness and short-yardage power to the backfield, Makhi Frazier might be their guy.
The Michigan State back logged 116 carries for 520 yards and two touchdowns in 2025. He’s not flashy, but he’s dependable - a north-south runner who can move the chains and handle the dirty work between the tackles.
Frazier also brings some pass-catching ability and holds up well in pass protection, which is a must in Tennessee’s fast-paced offense. With two years of eligibility remaining, he’s not just a one-year stopgap - he’s someone who could provide stability and leadership in a young room.
And unlike the other backs on this list, Frazier brings a physical edge. He’s the kind of back who can wear down defenses late in games or punch it in at the goal line - a role that’s always valuable in the SEC.
The Bottom Line
With Lewis out and no new recruits coming in, Tennessee’s running back room is officially in need of reinforcements. Bishop looks like the lead dog heading into 2026, but he can’t do it alone. Whether it’s a speedy change-of-pace back like Sutton Smith or Trequan Jones, a proven Power Five playmaker like Jahiem White, or a bruiser like Makhi Frazier, the Vols have options.
Now it’s about finding the right fit - someone who can not only complement what Bishop brings but also thrive in Heupel’s high-octane offense. The portal opens January 2nd. Expect Tennessee to be active.