Ex-Tennessee quarterback anticipated to join transfer portal

Tayven Jackson, who previously played quarterback for the University of Tennessee, is anticipated to enter the NCAA transfer portal, according to On3's Pete Nakos.

Jackson spent the 2025 season at UCF, appearing in 11 games and starting 10. The 6-foot-4, 215-pound signal-caller completed 200 of 315 passes for 2,151 yards, with 10 touchdowns and eight interceptions during his lone season with the Knights.

Earlier in his career, Jackson played for Tennessee in 2022, participating in three games. He finished that season with 3 completions on 4 attempts for 37 passing yards, and added 10 rushing yards along with a rushing touchdown.

After the 2022 season, Jackson transferred to Indiana, where he played from 2023 to 2024. Over two seasons with the Hoosiers, he appeared in 13 games, starting six, and completed 101 of 165 passes for 1,263 yards, six touchdowns, and six interceptions.

Jackson originally hails from Center Grove High School in Greenwood, Indiana, and committed to Tennessee on April 28, 2021, as part of their 2022 recruiting class.

Analysis: Tayven Jackson's Transfer Prospects

Tayven Jackson’s potential entry into the NCAA transfer portal marks another chapter in a collegiate career characterized by movement and adaptation. Having played at Tennessee, Indiana, and UCF, Jackson has accumulated experience across multiple offensive systems.

During his single season at UCF in 2025, Jackson demonstrated durability and opportunity, starting 10 games and completing over 200 passes for 2,151 yards. While his touchdown-to-interception ratio of 10-8 indicates room for improvement, it also shows he can manage significant playing time under pressure.

Jackson’s prior stints at Tennessee and Indiana provided limited exposure but contributed to his development. At Indiana, he started six games over two seasons, completing 101 of 165 passes for 1,263 yards. These experiences have likely helped him build adaptability and resilience, qualities desirable for prospective programs seeking a transfer quarterback.

As he considers the next move, Jackson brings a combination of size, experience, and mobility. Programs in need of a quarterback with proven game experience and the ability to learn quickly could view him as a valuable addition. His journey underscores the increasingly dynamic nature of the NCAA transfer market.

Sources:

• Former Tennessee quarterback expected to enter transfer portal

Author: Maya Henderson
Maya Henderson is a journalist focused on technology and startups. She has experience in leading IT publications and excels at conducting interviews and creating visual content.