Trey Weary is heading east to finish out his college football journey.
The former Tennessee wide receiver announced he’s transferring to East Tennessee State University (ETSU), marking a new chapter after four seasons in Knoxville. Weary, a redshirt junior this past year, made the move official on Instagram, thanking the Volunteers’ program for what he called an “unforgettable” experience.
Weary’s time at Tennessee was defined by persistence and growth. He joined the program as a walk-on in 2022 and steadily carved out a role for himself, appearing in 11 games during the 2025 season. While his numbers were modest - one catch for six yards this past year, and three receptions for 18 yards in 2024 - his presence in the locker room and on special teams didn’t go unnoticed.
In a bit of poetic symmetry, Weary’s lone catch in 2025 came against ETSU - the same team he’s now joining. That six-yard reception came during Tennessee’s dominant 72-17 win over the Buccaneers. Now, instead of lining up against them, he’ll be suiting up in blue and gold under head coach Will Healy in Johnson City.
Weary’s football roots run deep. His father, Fred Weary, was a standout offensive lineman for the Vols from 1997 to 2001. Trey followed in those footsteps, representing the same program with pride and carrying on the family legacy.
“I’m incredibly grateful to The University of Tennessee and the entire football program,” Weary wrote in his transfer announcement. He went on to thank not just the coaching staff, but also the strength coaches, trainers, equipment team, and even the cafeteria staff - a nod to the full team effort that supports student-athletes behind the scenes. He also gave a heartfelt shoutout to his teammates and the Vols’ passionate fan base, signing off with a familiar rally cry: “It’s great to be a Tennessee Vol!”
At ETSU, Weary won’t be the only former Vol making the switch. He’ll reunite with fellow Tennessee wide receiver Tommy Winton III, who also committed to the Buccaneers during this transfer window. For ETSU, the addition of two SEC-trained receivers brings valuable experience and depth to a roster looking to make noise in the Southern Conference.
For Weary, this move is about opportunity - a chance to take on a bigger role, contribute on the field, and close out his college career on his own terms. And for ETSU, it’s a low-risk, high-upside addition of a player who knows what it takes to compete at the highest level of college football.
Don’t be surprised if Weary makes the most of this new stage. He’s already shown he’s willing to put in the work. Now, he gets a fresh start and a chance to prove what he can do with more snaps and a bigger spotlight.