Tennessee Expected to Pass on Touted Quarterback in Transfer Portal

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Dibyendu Mondal | Last updated Apr 20, 2025 7:30 AM ET

The Tennessee Volunteers have been making the front page of sports news after the fiasco involving Nico Iamaleava. With him officially entering the portal, the Vols are left with Jake Merklinger and George MacIntyre as QB1 options, heading into the 2025 season.

Rumors surfaced about Tennessee going after Notre Dame quarterback Steve Angeli, which, per recent reports, isn't going to happen.

"I’d give it a couple more days, they had to of seen it coming?” another Power Four general manager told On3. “I don’t think they’re going after Steve Angeli.”

The 6-foot-2 quarterback completed 58-of-80 passes during his two seasons at the program, recording 772 yards and 10 touchdowns.

Tennessee quarterbacks MacIntyre and Merklinger have displayed potential during spring practices, though neither has collegiate starting experience. Head coach Josh Heupel emphasized confidence in their development, stating, "We got two guys in that room, excited to watch them go play."

pic.twitter.com/MV7HbIouYX
— Steve Angeli (@SteveAngeli_125) April 20, 2025

While the Volunteers could turn to their internal options, the staff is also exploring the transfer portal for veteran quarterbacks. The decision not to pursue Angeli might reflect Heupel’s preference to prioritize existing players or target a signal-caller better suited to Tennessee’s offensive scheme.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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