Add The New York Post on Google One of college football’s biggest transfer portal splashes has turned into a $2 million disaster for Tennessee.
The Vols and coach Josh Heupel beat out Ohio State and LSU for edge rusher Chaz Coleman, agreeing to pay him in the neighborhood of $2 million, according to CBS Sports, in by far their splashiest NIL move of the offseason.
He was set to be united with numerous former Penn State coaches, including new defensive coordinator Jim Knowles.
Chaz Coleman #19 of the Penn State Nittany Lions runs with the ball after a strip sack fumble against the FIU Panthers during the fourth quarter at Beaver Stadium on September 6, 2025 in State College, Pennsylvania. Getty Images The acquisition turned into a disaster, as the 19-year-old Penn State transfer was reportedly mostly a no-show at spring practices and the spring game before the program ultimately cut ties with him earlier this week, removing him from the roster page.
He was medically disqualified from the program, according to ESPN.
The 6-foot-4, 250-pound Coleman’s dismissal was not a simple matter revolving around money or behavioral issues, as he did not return for summer workouts.
It is unknown how much Tennessee already paid Coleman.
“Ultimately Chaz is dealing with some things off the field, and he’s got to handle that and go through that process,” Heupel said after Tennessee’s Orange & White Game on April 11. “We’re here to help and support him in all of those ways and will continue to do that. But that’s ultimately the beginning part of his journey right now, that (there’s) some things that he’s got to work through.”
CBS Sports reported earlier this year that the four-star recruit was feeling some homesickness — he’s from Warren, Ohio — and the pressure that came with being such a high-profile and well-paid recruit, along with physical issues and mental health strain.
Cruz still had lingering vertigo from a head injury during his time at Penn State.
Head coach Josh Heupel of the Tennessee Volunteers looks on during the first quarter of the Music City Bowl. Getty Images Coleman recorded a sack, a forced fumble, two fumble recoveries, three quarterback hurries and three tackles for loss in nine games for the Nitty Lions last season.
Tennessee needs a bounce-back season after going 8-4 and 4-4 in the SEC, a year removed from finishing No. 8 in the CFP rankings.
