Knoxville, TN – In a major pickup from the transfer portal, former Colorado offensive tackle Jay Gardenhire has officially committed to the Tennessee Volunteers, he confirmed to @On3. The towering 6-foot-8, 365-pound lineman brings massive size and upside to the Vols’ offensive front and will arrive in Knoxville with four full years of eligibility remaining.
Gardenhire initially joined Coach Deion Sanders’ Colorado program in January as an early enrollee, but after a short stint in Boulder, he entered the transfer portal seeking a fresh start—and quickly found a new home in the SEC.
Known for his raw strength, imposing frame, and high ceiling, Gardenhire has the tools to become a dominant force at the collegiate level. Tennessee’s coaching staff wasted no time making their pitch, and it clearly resonated with the young lineman, who now joins a Volunteers squad focused on building a physical, deep offensive line unit for the future.
This marks a significant win for head coach Josh Heupel, who continues to be aggressive in the portal while developing young talent for long-term success.
Gardenhire’s arrival adds even more competition in the trenches as the Vols prepare for summer workouts and fall camp.
Stay tuned for more on this developing story and updates on how Gardenhire fits into Tennessee’s 2025 plans.
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