Khalil Poteat, Temple transfer, joins Vanderbilt football after NCAA injunction

Khalil Poteat, a defensive end transfer from Temple, has signed with Vanderbilt football for the 2026 season, following an NCAA injunction that allowed him to play an additional year. This announcement came on August 17. During the 2025 season, Poteat played in 10 games, recording 29 tackles, including two tackles for loss and one sack. He also forced two fumbles. Poteat's college career included stints at two junior colleges in 2022 and 2023 before spending the last two seasons at Temple.

The NCAA's 5-in-5 rule, which implemented the five-season eligibility limit, granted numerous players, including Poteat, the opportunity to transfer. In January, Poteat entered the transfer portal, becoming eligible for a move. Vanderbilt coach Clark Lea mentioned on August 4 that discussions were ongoing regarding the team's needs and potential roster adjustments. Despite the numerous restrictions, Lea stated that Vanderbilt will not need to release any current players to accommodate Poteat.

Aria Gerson, a Vanderbilt athletics reporter for The Tennessean, covers the story.