One of the best transfer options on the market this offseason is giving Tennessee a serious look.
Texas Tech receiver Jonathan Giles, who recorded 69 catches for 1,158 yards and 13 touchdowns in 2016 for the Red Raiders, named the Vols one of his 10 finalists in a tweet on Tuesday evening as UT joins Ohio State, Florida State, LSU, Louisville, Georgia, Wisconsin, Purdue, SMU and Oregon on the list.
https://twitter.com/_JonathanGiles/status/862121575310655489
Tennessee already landed one transfer this offseason in Louisville cornerback Shaq Wiggins, who is expected to come in and compete for a starting job immediately.
Giles will be in a different situation. Assuming he ends up at the FBS level, he’ll have to sit out a year and then will have two years left to play.
So while he doesn’t have immediate-impact potential, he could potentially be a very intriguing piece for the Vols in terms of what they need for the future of the roster. Jauan Jennings, a junior, and Josh Smith, a senior, are two of the most reliable options the Vols have at receiver as of this moment. Especially if Jennings were to go pro following the 2017 season, the Vols would desperately be looking for help for their young nucleus of receivers that includes Tyler Byrd, Latrell Williams, Marquez Callaway, Brandon Johnson and others.
Giles (5-11, 185), a native of Missouri City, Tex., would likely project as a slot receiver in Tennessee’s offense, a spot Butch Jones has had success developing players. That, and the early playing time, are likely selling points for the coveted transfer.
But with a loaded list of suitors, Giles could be a tough pull for this coaching staff.
