Football players training energetically on the field.
Former Grand Valley State defensive tackle Josh Schell has committed to the University of Tennessee after entering the NCAA Transfer Portal. Schell, who had an impressive collegiate career, is eager to join the Volunteers and enhance their defensive line. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 290 pounds, he brings versatility and skills developed during his time in both football and baseball at Grand Valley, making him a valuable addition to Tennessee’s roster.
KNOXVILLE, TN – Former Grand Valley State defensive tackle Josh Schell has announced his commitment to play for the University of Tennessee after entering the NCAA Transfer Portal. The announcement comes following a productive collegiate football career at Grand Valley State, where Schell spent three seasons contributing significantly to the team’s defensive line.
In the 2024 season, Schell achieved notable career-highs including 35 tackles, three tackles for loss, two sacks, six pass deflections, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. His impressive performance earned him recognition as an All-Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Honorable Mention. This acknowledgment reflects his growth and impact as a key player during his time with Grand Valley State.
Before this successful season, Schell redshirted his true freshman year in 2022 and demonstrated his athletic versatility by also participating on the Grand Valley State baseball team, recording a pitching record of 1-0 with a 6.50 earned run average during the 2023 season. In that season, he made eight appearances on the football field, where he tallied a total of 11 tackles. His experiences in both football and baseball at Grand Valley have contributed to honed skills that prepare him for competition at the Southeastern Conference (SEC) level.
Schell, who stands at 6-foot-3 and weighs 290 pounds, possesses the versatility to play both defensive tackle and defensive end, a flexibility that makes him an appealing addition to Tennessee’s roster. He expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to join Tennessee after visiting the campus on April 27, where he appreciated the approachable coaching style of head coach Josh Heupel and the extensive experience of defensive line coach Rodney Garner in the SEC.
Entering his redshirt junior season, Schell is looking to solidify his place on the Tennessee roster and contribute meaningfully to the team’s defensive strategies. He emphasized his intention to find a stable program where he can focus solely on improving and competing at a high level, instead of navigating the complexities of frequent transfers. Following his decision to enter the transfer portal on April 17, Schell received interest from several other programs, including UCF, SMU, and Kentucky, which indicates the demand for his skills in college football.
Schell’s journey began at Mt. Pleasant High School in Michigan, where he was an unranked prospect during the 2022 recruiting cycle. However, his determination and dedication during his college years allowed him to make significant contributions on the field, proving himself as a worthy player capable of making an impact at a higher level. With two years of NCAA eligibility remaining, Schell now aims to transition smoothly into the SEC environment, drawing upon his diverse athletic experiences and a strong foundation built during his time at Grand Valley State.
The addition of Josh Schell to the Tennessee Volunteers signifies a strategic move to bolster their defensive line, and fans are eager to see how he will adapt to the challenges presented by SEC competition as he prepares for the upcoming season.
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