He can just ask out of his NLI, he doesn’t need to enter the portal unless UT won’t release him. To enter the portal, you have to be enrolled or the school won’t release you. Imagine he will get a release.
I ain't gonna lie, I really wanted to see him in the orange and white, but as stated previously about the transfer portal: If you don't want to be at UT, then you need to enter it. Best of luck.
Another possibility: maybe he did talk to the Tennessee staff. Maybe this move is about fit.He may eventually get his release but I am sure that the coaching staff are wanting to talk with him and try and persuade him to stay. If he doesn't want to stay then entering the portal is the fastest way out I would say.
Do not blame him one bit in this pass heavy offense