Tennessee dismisses star edge rusher Chaz Coleman in $2 million transfer portal disaster

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. 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.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 fro...