News Summary
Tennessee football has officially signed redshirt junior defensive lineman Josh Schell from Grand Valley State. After entering the NCAA transfer portal, Schell chose Tennessee for its strong coaching and facilities. Standing at 6’4 and 290 pounds, he demonstrated versatility on the field with a solid last season, making 35 tackles and 2 sacks. With two years of eligibility left, Schell aims to enhance Tennessee’s defensive line under experienced coach Rodney Garner, enjoying a supportive atmosphere during his visit that ultimately influenced his decision to join the Volunteers.
KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE — Tennessee football has welcomed a new addition to its roster as redshirt junior defensive lineman Josh Schell has officially signed with the program. Schell, who previously played at Grand Valley State, made the decision to transfer, following a surge of advice from former teammates who had successfully transitioned to other schools.
Having entered the NCAA transfer portal just last week, Schell found himself drawn to the University of Tennessee. The opportunity to join the program became a top choice for him after assessing various options. His visit to the university over the weekend solidified his decision, where he was warmly welcomed and impressed by the coaching staff and facilities.
Schell described his visit to Knoxville as a “really, really awesome” experience, reflecting on the positive atmosphere fostered by both the coaches and players. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 290 pounds, Schell is regarded as a versatile player capable of adapting to multiple roles on the defensive line. His performance last season included recording 35 tackles, 3 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, 6 pass breakups, 3 quarterback hurries, a forced fumble, and recovering a fumble.
With two years of remaining eligibility, Schell looks forward to the opportunities available at Tennessee, specifically under the guidance of veteran defensive line coach Rodney Garner, who boasts 36 years of coaching experience in the SEC and a reputation for developing NFL draft picks. Schell’s initial interest in Tennessee stemmed not only from the program’s history but also from the positive influence of the coaching staff.
Prior to choosing Tennessee, Schell explored opportunities at other institutions, including UCF, and had shown interest in SMU and Kentucky. His transfer experience was somewhat unconventional, as he entered the portal after a brief yet supportive discussion with his coach from Grand Valley State. On the first day of entering the portal, Schell received approximately 15 offers from various schools.
Despite the influx of interest from other programs, Schell emphasized his desire to find a long-term solution for playing high-level football instead of becoming a frequent transfer. He acknowledged the importance of comprehensive resources available at Tennessee, such as strength training, nutrition programs, and expert coaching. Schell also prides himself on his high motor, asserting that his energy and effort on the field set him apart.
As Tennessee prepares for the upcoming season, the addition of Josh Schell could significantly bolster its defensive capabilities. His versatility on the line and proven performance at Grand Valley State makes him a valuable asset for the Volunteers. The coaching staff and current players are optimistic about his impact as the program aims to achieve its goals in the competitive landscape of college football.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- DNJ: Josh Schell Transfers to Tennessee
- 247Sports: Josh Schell Signs with Tennessee
- On3: Josh Schell’s Commitment to Tennessee
- Saturday Down South: Tennessee Commitment
- Rocky Top Talk: Josh Schell Commits to Tennessee
