Could Tennessee football be on the verge of securing another key addition to their offensive line? All signs seem to be pointing in that direction, as developments surrounding Notre Dame guard Sam Pendleton are unfolding at a rapid pace. Pendleton, who entered the transfer portal on Wednesday, has quickly become a name to watch in the Vols’ offseason plans.
The situation is intriguing, to say the least. Pendleton began the 2024 season as a starter for the Fighting Irish, earning a spot in seven games. But the tides turned midway through the campaign. For reasons still unclear, Pendleton lost his starting job and became a spectator during Notre Dame’s biggest moments—their College Football Playoff clashes against Georgia, Penn State, and Ohio State. His absence in those high-stakes matchups sparked speculation, and now, his decision to seek a fresh start through the portal adds yet another layer of intrigue.
For Tennessee fans, this news couldn’t come at a more opportune time. According to Austin Price of Volquest, Pendleton is already en route to Knoxville, where he is scheduled to take an official visit on Thursday. This swift movement suggests mutual interest and raises the possibility that Pendleton could find a new home with the Vols.
Adding even more suspense to the situation, On3’s Pete Nakos has reported that Pendleton entered the transfer portal with a “no contact” tag. This unusual designation typically signals that the player already has a destination in mind, or at the very least, a strong preference for where he wants to go. Could Knoxville be the place he’s eyeing? Could the Vols’ coaching staff have already made a compelling pitch to the talented guard?
For now, fans will have to wait and see how this plays out, but one thing is clear: Sam Pendleton’s journey through the transfer portal is one to watch closely, and Tennessee football might just be the biggest beneficiary of his next move.
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