3 mins. ago
Green Bay signed former Tennessee tight end McCallan Castles on Tuesday. The Packers also signed tight end Drew Biber.
General manager Brian Gutekunst announced the transactions.
Green Bay worked out Castles and long snapper Cal Adomitis (Pittsburgh), wide receiver Elijhah Badger (Florida), wide receiver Elijah Cooks (San Jose State), long snapper John Ferlmann (Ohio State), tight end Brandon Frazier (Auburn), long snapper Brent Matiscik (TCU), wide receiver ***** us Mokiao-Atimalala (UCLA), tight end Briley Moore (Kansas State) and wide receiver Kaden Prather (Maryland) on July 30.
Castles played for the Vols in 2023. He appeared in 13 games and totaled 22 receptions for 283 yards and five touchdowns.
Castles transferred to Tennessee from UC Davis ahead of the 2023 season.
#tight
General manager Brian Gutekunst announced the transactions.
Green Bay worked out Castles and long snapper Cal Adomitis (Pittsburgh), wide receiver Elijhah Badger (Florida), wide receiver Elijah Cooks (San Jose State), long snapper John Ferlmann (Ohio State), tight end Brandon Frazier (Auburn), long snapper Brent Matiscik (TCU), wide receiver ***** us Mokiao-Atimalala (UCLA), tight end Briley Moore (Kansas State) and wide receiver Kaden Prather (Maryland) on July 30.
Castles played for the Vols in 2023. He appeared in 13 games and totaled 22 receptions for 283 yards and five touchdowns.
Castles transferred to Tennessee from UC Davis ahead of the 2023 season.
#tight
1 hr. ago
After finishing the college football season 8-5 last year, it's back to the drawing board for the Tennessee Volunteers.
There's plenty of turnover for the Vols entering 2026, including quarterback Joey Aguilar, who was denied a waiver to compete for an additional season.
Nonetheless, Tennessee is sure to be strong on defense at the very least with new defensive coordinator Jim Knowles as the offense looks to find a rhythm with one of its freshman quarterbacks.
SHOP: 2026 Tennessee college football tickets
With the excitement of hearing Rocky Top blaring throughout Neyland Stadium in the fall, it's time to get your weekends planned with Vols football tickets.
#tennessee #vols #college
There's plenty of turnover for the Vols entering 2026, including quarterback Joey Aguilar, who was denied a waiver to compete for an additional season.
Nonetheless, Tennessee is sure to be strong on defense at the very least with new defensive coordinator Jim Knowles as the offense looks to find a rhythm with one of its freshman quarterbacks.
SHOP: 2026 Tennessee college football tickets
With the excitement of hearing Rocky Top blaring throughout Neyland Stadium in the fall, it's time to get your weekends planned with Vols football tickets.
#tennessee #vols #college
10 hours ago
Sophomore Ty Redmond enters his second season at Tennessee in 2026.
The 6-foot-3, 200-pound defensive back appeared in 13 games, including 12 starts, for the Vols as a freshman in 2026. He recorded 43 tackles, one tackle for a loss, three interceptions and 15 pass deflections.
The second-year cornerback is the SEC's leading returning defender in passes defended (15) and pass breakups (12).
Redmond was named SEC Co-Freshman of the Week on Nov. 17, 2025 after playing 47 snaps against New Mexico State. He recorded five tackles, one pass breakup and one interception in the Vols', 42-9, homecoming victory.
Redmond was named to the SEC All-Freshman Team (coaches), All-SEC Third Team (coaches) and Fall SEC Academic Honor Roll in 2025.
#redmond #pass #second #coaches
The 6-foot-3, 200-pound defensive back appeared in 13 games, including 12 starts, for the Vols as a freshman in 2026. He recorded 43 tackles, one tackle for a loss, three interceptions and 15 pass deflections.
The second-year cornerback is the SEC's leading returning defender in passes defended (15) and pass breakups (12).
Redmond was named SEC Co-Freshman of the Week on Nov. 17, 2025 after playing 47 snaps against New Mexico State. He recorded five tackles, one pass breakup and one interception in the Vols', 42-9, homecoming victory.
Redmond was named to the SEC All-Freshman Team (coaches), All-SEC Third Team (coaches) and Fall SEC Academic Honor Roll in 2025.
#redmond #pass #second #coaches
10 hours ago
Tennessee football preseason practice has arrived, so it's time to start hyping and overanalyzing every player at every position on the 2026 roster.
On this podcast episode of "The Volunteer State," beat writer Adam Sparks and columnist John Adams discuss not-so-obvious players who could impact the Vols' season. And there's one big caveat: No quarterbacks.
This list includes players who aren't on preseason watch lists for all-conference honors. They're underrated for whatever reason. They're not the top transfer or a five-star freshman. And some are viewed as second-fiddle players in terms of interest at their position.
Sparks presented five under-the-radar players that intrigue him, and Adams reacted. To hear the full discussion, listen to the hour-long podcast. Here are those five intriguing players and why they were selected.
There was a time when Ethan Davis was seen as a young rising star at tight end. But he was overshadowed by transfers like McCallan Castles, Holden Staes and Miles Kitselman. In 2026, Davis has arrived at a now-or-never point in his career.
#time
On this podcast episode of "The Volunteer State," beat writer Adam Sparks and columnist John Adams discuss not-so-obvious players who could impact the Vols' season. And there's one big caveat: No quarterbacks.
This list includes players who aren't on preseason watch lists for all-conference honors. They're underrated for whatever reason. They're not the top transfer or a five-star freshman. And some are viewed as second-fiddle players in terms of interest at their position.
Sparks presented five under-the-radar players that intrigue him, and Adams reacted. To hear the full discussion, listen to the hour-long podcast. Here are those five intriguing players and why they were selected.
There was a time when Ethan Davis was seen as a young rising star at tight end. But he was overshadowed by transfers like McCallan Castles, Holden Staes and Miles Kitselman. In 2026, Davis has arrived at a now-or-never point in his career.
#time
10 hours ago
Tennessee football preseason practice has arrived, so it's time to start hyping and overanalyzing every player at every position on the 2026 roster.
On this podcast episode of "The Volunteer State," beat writer Adam Sparks and columnist John Adams discuss not-so-obvious players who could impact the Vols' season. And there's one big caveat: No quarterbacks.
This list includes players who aren't on preseason watch lists for all-conference honors. They're underrated for whatever reason. They're not the top transfer or a five-star freshman. And some are viewed as second-fiddle players in terms of interest at their position.
Sparks presented five under-the-radar players that intrigue him, and Adams reacted. To hear the full discussion, listen to the hour-long podcast. Here are those five intriguing players and why they were selected.
There was a time when Ethan Davis was seen as a young rising star at tight end. But he was overshadowed by transfers like McCallan Castles, Holden Staes and Miles Kitselman. In 2026, Davis has arrived at a now-or-never point in his career.
#five #adams #arrived #every
On this podcast episode of "The Volunteer State," beat writer Adam Sparks and columnist John Adams discuss not-so-obvious players who could impact the Vols' season. And there's one big caveat: No quarterbacks.
This list includes players who aren't on preseason watch lists for all-conference honors. They're underrated for whatever reason. They're not the top transfer or a five-star freshman. And some are viewed as second-fiddle players in terms of interest at their position.
Sparks presented five under-the-radar players that intrigue him, and Adams reacted. To hear the full discussion, listen to the hour-long podcast. Here are those five intriguing players and why they were selected.
There was a time when Ethan Davis was seen as a young rising star at tight end. But he was overshadowed by transfers like McCallan Castles, Holden Staes and Miles Kitselman. In 2026, Davis has arrived at a now-or-never point in his career.
#five #adams #arrived #every
11 hours ago
Tennessee redshirt junior running back DeSean Bishop was named to the Maxwell Award Preseason Watch List ahead of the 2026 football season.
Bishop, a former walk-on, is the Vols' first returning 1,000-yard running back since Jalen Hurd in 2016.
He totaled 1,076 rushing yards and 16 rushing touchdowns on 182 attempts, while appearing in 13 games (13 starts). Bishop also totaled 15 receptions for 135 yards and led the team with 1,211 all-purpose yards, averaging 93.2 total yards per game. His 16 rushing touchdowns were tied for second in the SEC and ranked sixth nationally, while also tying for fourth most rushing touchdowns in a single season in program history.
Bishop was ranked fourth in rushing yards in the SEC last season, fifth in yards per game (82.8), fourth in yards per attempt (5.9) and recorded 100-plus rushing yards in three games.
Semifinalists for the Maxwell Award will be announced Nov. 10, while the three finalists will be announced on Nov. 24. A winner will be unveiled on Dec. 10.
#yards #award
Bishop, a former walk-on, is the Vols' first returning 1,000-yard running back since Jalen Hurd in 2016.
He totaled 1,076 rushing yards and 16 rushing touchdowns on 182 attempts, while appearing in 13 games (13 starts). Bishop also totaled 15 receptions for 135 yards and led the team with 1,211 all-purpose yards, averaging 93.2 total yards per game. His 16 rushing touchdowns were tied for second in the SEC and ranked sixth nationally, while also tying for fourth most rushing touchdowns in a single season in program history.
Bishop was ranked fourth in rushing yards in the SEC last season, fifth in yards per game (82.8), fourth in yards per attempt (5.9) and recorded 100-plus rushing yards in three games.
Semifinalists for the Maxwell Award will be announced Nov. 10, while the three finalists will be announced on Nov. 24. A winner will be unveiled on Dec. 10.
#yards #award
4 days ago
Tennessee football's star running back DeSean Bishop showed his support for teammate Arion Carter after the Vols linebacker was hit with a two-game suspension by the NCAA for accepting a $427 flight from his agent while going through the NFL draft process last winter.
Bishop shared a statement on Instagram on July 31 and tagged it with #STANDFORAC . He called for a closer review of the circumstances that led to Carter's suspension.
"While eligibility matters are handled through established processes, my focus today is simply on supporting a teammate who has worked tirelessly for this opportunity. I believe in Arion as a person, a leader, and a competitor," Bishop said. "I also trust that those responsible for reviewing his situation will carefully consider all of the facts and circumstances involved."
#teammate #suspension #desean
Bishop shared a statement on Instagram on July 31 and tagged it with #STANDFORAC . He called for a closer review of the circumstances that led to Carter's suspension.
"While eligibility matters are handled through established processes, my focus today is simply on supporting a teammate who has worked tirelessly for this opportunity. I believe in Arion as a person, a leader, and a competitor," Bishop said. "I also trust that those responsible for reviewing his situation will carefully consider all of the facts and circumstances involved."
#teammate #suspension #desean
4 days ago
Tennessee will kick off its 2026 football season with 11 linebackers on roster.
Senior Arion Carter returns for his fourth season. He will miss two games due to a NCAA violation suspension for a $427.48 flight, which he repaid, during the NFL pre-draft process.
"Arion Carter represents everything that is right about college athletics, dedicating all four years of his career to the University of Tennessee," Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel said. "His high character, loyalty and leadership within our program are unmatched. Last December, Arion declared for the 2026 NFL Draft. He signed with an agent and accepted a $427.48 flight to begin the pre-draft process. He withdrew from the NFL Draft prior to the deadline due to a medical procedure and decided in his best interest to return to Tennessee for his senior season. Last January in good faith, he disengaged from the agent in terms of the NFL and paid back the flight in full.
"We disagree with the NCAA's ruling on punishing Arion with a multi-game suspension this fall. Arion made the right decision for his future health and well-being. He will proudly graduate from Tennessee in public health with Dean's List honors in August. Our team stands behind AC and his family, and we can't wait to be on the field with him during training camp next week."
The 6-foot-1, 238-pound linebacker appeared in 23 games, including 13 starts, for the Vols from 2023-25. He has totaled 161 tackles, 13.5 tackles for a loss, 1.5 sacks, one interception, 10 pass deflections, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery.
#draft #season #senior #games
Senior Arion Carter returns for his fourth season. He will miss two games due to a NCAA violation suspension for a $427.48 flight, which he repaid, during the NFL pre-draft process.
"Arion Carter represents everything that is right about college athletics, dedicating all four years of his career to the University of Tennessee," Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel said. "His high character, loyalty and leadership within our program are unmatched. Last December, Arion declared for the 2026 NFL Draft. He signed with an agent and accepted a $427.48 flight to begin the pre-draft process. He withdrew from the NFL Draft prior to the deadline due to a medical procedure and decided in his best interest to return to Tennessee for his senior season. Last January in good faith, he disengaged from the agent in terms of the NFL and paid back the flight in full.
"We disagree with the NCAA's ruling on punishing Arion with a multi-game suspension this fall. Arion made the right decision for his future health and well-being. He will proudly graduate from Tennessee in public health with Dean's List honors in August. Our team stands behind AC and his family, and we can't wait to be on the field with him during training camp next week."
The 6-foot-1, 238-pound linebacker appeared in 23 games, including 13 starts, for the Vols from 2023-25. He has totaled 161 tackles, 13.5 tackles for a loss, 1.5 sacks, one interception, 10 pass deflections, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery.
#draft #season #senior #games
5 days ago
In what is some of the more unexpected former Cincinnati Bengals players news to hit training camp in years, a surprising name has started to make the rounds:
Cordell Volson.
Volson, a fourth-round pick by the Bengals in 2022, might just be in line to start for the Tennessee **** ans next season.
At **** ans training camp, Volson has received work with the first team under the direction of head coach Robert Saleh.
That will surprise some Bengals fans. Volson was an underdog story who worked his way up to a starting job, going for 989-plus snaps three seasons in a row from 2022-2024 before going to injured reserve last year.
#bengals #camp #going #robert
Cordell Volson.
Volson, a fourth-round pick by the Bengals in 2022, might just be in line to start for the Tennessee **** ans next season.
At **** ans training camp, Volson has received work with the first team under the direction of head coach Robert Saleh.
That will surprise some Bengals fans. Volson was an underdog story who worked his way up to a starting job, going for 989-plus snaps three seasons in a row from 2022-2024 before going to injured reserve last year.
#bengals #camp #going #robert
6 days ago
On Tuesday, Tennessee **** ans general manager Mike Borgonzi met with the media and touched on the upcoming offensive line competition at training camp. He said he was pleased with where the team was at this stage of the preseason, with active battles at center and right guard taking center stage.
Center Austin Schlottmann and guard Cordell Volson will get the first crack at winning the starting job, but they will rotate and face challenges from Pat Coogan and Jackson Slater early in camp.
During the press conference with head coach Robert Saleh, Borgonzi hinted at potential additions to the interior of the offensive line, and it appears he was serious. On Wednesday, the **** ans worked out Oregon State guard Joshua Gray and Northern Iowa guard Jared Penning.
Gray doesn't have any NFL experience, but did spend 2025 with the Atlanta Falcons on their practice squad after going undrafted out of Oregon State. The 6-foot-5, 299-pound guard signed a reserve/futures contract with the Carolina Panthers, but was waived in July ahead of training camp.
Like Gray, Penning also spent his rookie season on a practice squad with the Baltimore Ravens after going undrafted out of Northern Iowa in 2025. He re-signed a reserve/futures contract with the Ravens in January and was earlier in July.
#gray #oregon #state #northern
Center Austin Schlottmann and guard Cordell Volson will get the first crack at winning the starting job, but they will rotate and face challenges from Pat Coogan and Jackson Slater early in camp.
During the press conference with head coach Robert Saleh, Borgonzi hinted at potential additions to the interior of the offensive line, and it appears he was serious. On Wednesday, the **** ans worked out Oregon State guard Joshua Gray and Northern Iowa guard Jared Penning.
Gray doesn't have any NFL experience, but did spend 2025 with the Atlanta Falcons on their practice squad after going undrafted out of Oregon State. The 6-foot-5, 299-pound guard signed a reserve/futures contract with the Carolina Panthers, but was waived in July ahead of training camp.
Like Gray, Penning also spent his rookie season on a practice squad with the Baltimore Ravens after going undrafted out of Northern Iowa in 2025. He re-signed a reserve/futures contract with the Ravens in January and was earlier in July.
#gray #oregon #state #northern
6 days ago
Rocky Top will always be the dominant college powerhouse in the state of Tennessee with Volunteers having historical success in women's basketball and talented athletes in football, softball and track and field. But when putting a list of the 10 best athletes in Tennessee, there are other schools to consider.
Vanderbilt, Memphis and Tennessee State are among the 11 other schools that compete in Division I athletics across the state. Each of the aforementioned trio have standouts that deserve inclusion in the discussion.
PATH TO PLAYOFF: Sign up for our college football newsletter
Here's a look at the top 10 greatest college athletes to ever play in the state of Tennessee, part of the USA TODAY Sports USA 250 initiative:
The 2007 SEC female athlete of the year, Abbott set NCAA records in wins, strikeouts, shutouts and became the first pitcher to post at least 500 strikeouts in four consecutive seasons. She guided the Vols to three Women's College World Series berths and struck out a record 734 batters her senior year and was named national player of the year. Abbott is the NCAA leader in career strikeouts (2,440) as part of a career that includes 23 no-hitters and six perfect games.
#tennessee #college #state #abbott
Vanderbilt, Memphis and Tennessee State are among the 11 other schools that compete in Division I athletics across the state. Each of the aforementioned trio have standouts that deserve inclusion in the discussion.
PATH TO PLAYOFF: Sign up for our college football newsletter
Here's a look at the top 10 greatest college athletes to ever play in the state of Tennessee, part of the USA TODAY Sports USA 250 initiative:
The 2007 SEC female athlete of the year, Abbott set NCAA records in wins, strikeouts, shutouts and became the first pitcher to post at least 500 strikeouts in four consecutive seasons. She guided the Vols to three Women's College World Series berths and struck out a record 734 batters her senior year and was named national player of the year. Abbott is the NCAA leader in career strikeouts (2,440) as part of a career that includes 23 no-hitters and six perfect games.
#tennessee #college #state #abbott
7 days ago
Tennessee football won the recruiting battle for five-star running back David Gabriel Georges, and Ohio State is trying to cope with the loss.
On this podcast episode of "The Volunteer State," beat writer Adam Sparks and columnist John Adams discuss both sides of that result, including the potential impact of Gabriel Georges on the Vols in 2027 and his similarities to past UT running backs.
Plus, Sparks is back from SEC media days, where he talked to reporters who ******* ume five-star freshman Faizon Brandon will win UT's quarterback competition over redshirt freshman George MacIntyre. Even some on the SEC Network set have made up their mind. But why?
And coach Josh Heupel may be hedging on his plan for picking the starting quarterback.
It's a loaded podcast episode as the Vols approach the start of preseason practice on Aug. 5. To hear the full discussion, listen to the 61-minute podcast. Here are some highlights.
#podcast #five #running
On this podcast episode of "The Volunteer State," beat writer Adam Sparks and columnist John Adams discuss both sides of that result, including the potential impact of Gabriel Georges on the Vols in 2027 and his similarities to past UT running backs.
Plus, Sparks is back from SEC media days, where he talked to reporters who ******* ume five-star freshman Faizon Brandon will win UT's quarterback competition over redshirt freshman George MacIntyre. Even some on the SEC Network set have made up their mind. But why?
And coach Josh Heupel may be hedging on his plan for picking the starting quarterback.
It's a loaded podcast episode as the Vols approach the start of preseason practice on Aug. 5. To hear the full discussion, listen to the 61-minute podcast. Here are some highlights.
#podcast #five #running
7 days ago
Tennessee football won the recruiting battle for five-star running back David Gabriel Georges, and Ohio State is trying to cope with the loss.
On this podcast episode of "The Volunteer State," beat writer Adam Sparks and columnist John Adams discuss both sides of that result, including the potential impact of Gabriel Georges on the Vols in 2027 and his similarities to past UT running backs.
Plus, Sparks is back from SEC media days, where he talked to reporters who ******* ume five-star freshman Faizon Brandon will win UT's quarterback competition over redshirt freshman George MacIntyre. Even some on the SEC Network set have made up their mind. But why?
And coach Josh Heupel may be hedging on his plan for picking the starting quarterback.
It's a loaded podcast episode as the Vols approach the start of preseason practice on Aug. 5. To hear the full discussion, listen to the 61-minute podcast. Here are some highlights.
#podcast #gabriel #five #star
On this podcast episode of "The Volunteer State," beat writer Adam Sparks and columnist John Adams discuss both sides of that result, including the potential impact of Gabriel Georges on the Vols in 2027 and his similarities to past UT running backs.
Plus, Sparks is back from SEC media days, where he talked to reporters who ******* ume five-star freshman Faizon Brandon will win UT's quarterback competition over redshirt freshman George MacIntyre. Even some on the SEC Network set have made up their mind. But why?
And coach Josh Heupel may be hedging on his plan for picking the starting quarterback.
It's a loaded podcast episode as the Vols approach the start of preseason practice on Aug. 5. To hear the full discussion, listen to the 61-minute podcast. Here are some highlights.
#podcast #gabriel #five #star
7 days ago
San Francisco (45-61) opened a three-game series against Milwaukee (66-40) on Monday. The Giants won the series opener, 3-0, at Oracle Park in San Francisco, California. 35,107 were in attendance.
Two former Vols played in Monday's National League contest.
Drew Gilbert started in center field for the Giants. He went 1-for-3 and singled to right field in the sixth inning. Gilbert was picked off at first base by pitcher Brandon Sproat (3-6).
Garrett Stallings pitched two innings in relief for the Brewers. He recorded one strikeout and 37 pitches, including 19 strikes, against seven batters. The right-handed pitcher allowed one walk.
Stallings played for the Vols from 2017-19. He appeared 52 games, including 35 starts, and pitched 251.1 innings. Stallings recorded 182 strikeouts, two saves and a 16-14 record.
#right
Two former Vols played in Monday's National League contest.
Drew Gilbert started in center field for the Giants. He went 1-for-3 and singled to right field in the sixth inning. Gilbert was picked off at first base by pitcher Brandon Sproat (3-6).
Garrett Stallings pitched two innings in relief for the Brewers. He recorded one strikeout and 37 pitches, including 19 strikes, against seven batters. The right-handed pitcher allowed one walk.
Stallings played for the Vols from 2017-19. He appeared 52 games, including 35 starts, and pitched 251.1 innings. Stallings recorded 182 strikeouts, two saves and a 16-14 record.
#right
7 days ago
Tennessee football is one of four finalists in the recruitment of three-star running back Asa Barnes.
The 5-foot-11, 200-pound prospect will announce his commitment decision between the Vols, Arkansas, USC and Florida State at 5 p.m. EDT on the Rivals YouTube channel.
Barnes is an in-state target from Westview High School in Martin, Tennessee. 247Sports ranks him as the No. 41 running back in the class and No. 24 player in Tennessee.
Tennessee offered Barnes a scholarship during an unofficial visit on June 5, 2025. He has visited the Vols three times since then, most recently for an official visit on June 19.
Florida State was the first school to offer Barnes a scholarship on Jan. 19, 2025. Other schools to offer him a scholarship include Ohio State, Alabama, Ole Miss, Purdue, Maryland, Vanderbilt, Missouri, Louisville, Northwestern, Cincinnati and Virginia Tech.
#tennessee #june
The 5-foot-11, 200-pound prospect will announce his commitment decision between the Vols, Arkansas, USC and Florida State at 5 p.m. EDT on the Rivals YouTube channel.
Barnes is an in-state target from Westview High School in Martin, Tennessee. 247Sports ranks him as the No. 41 running back in the class and No. 24 player in Tennessee.
Tennessee offered Barnes a scholarship during an unofficial visit on June 5, 2025. He has visited the Vols three times since then, most recently for an official visit on June 19.
Florida State was the first school to offer Barnes a scholarship on Jan. 19, 2025. Other schools to offer him a scholarship include Ohio State, Alabama, Ole Miss, Purdue, Maryland, Vanderbilt, Missouri, Louisville, Northwestern, Cincinnati and Virginia Tech.
#tennessee #june
8 days ago
Tennessee football hopes to land in-state standout Asa Barnes as a 2027 backfield sidekick to David Gabriel Georges.
Barnes is a three-star running back from Martin Westview. He is ranked the No. 36 running back and No. 551 player overall in the 2027 class. But he's coveted by the Vols to a degree beyond his recruit rating.
Barnes will announce his commitment at 5 p.m. ET on July 29.
If he picks Tennessee, Barnes will join Gabriel Georges, a five-star running back already committed to the Vols. And UT would become only the fifth team to land multiple top-40 running backs in the 2027 class.
Here's what you need to know about Barnes and his upcoming decision.
#barnes #back #land #star
Barnes is a three-star running back from Martin Westview. He is ranked the No. 36 running back and No. 551 player overall in the 2027 class. But he's coveted by the Vols to a degree beyond his recruit rating.
Barnes will announce his commitment at 5 p.m. ET on July 29.
If he picks Tennessee, Barnes will join Gabriel Georges, a five-star running back already committed to the Vols. And UT would become only the fifth team to land multiple top-40 running backs in the 2027 class.
Here's what you need to know about Barnes and his upcoming decision.
#barnes #back #land #star
11 days ago
With rookies already in camp, the Tennessee **** ans are just a few days away from taking the field and watching the position battles commence.
Tennessee made some significant changes to its roster throughout the offseason and will look a lot different than it did in 2025, but it still has some questions to answer on both sides of the ball. In his preseason preview, ESPN's Turron Davenport outlines three key position battles to watch once camp kicks off that could have a major impact on the outcome of the 2026 season.
There's no slam-dunk favorite in the three-way battle between veterans Austin Schlottmann and Andre James and rookie Pat Coogan. Schlottmann has the upper hand, having played in Daboll's offense the past two seasons. But James, a late addition during minicamp, started 31 games for offensive line coach Carmen Bricillo with the Raiders in 2022 and 2023. Coogan has an outside shot at the job because of his top-level communication skills, but he has an uphill battle after being selected in the sixth round in April.
The late addition of James adds some more intrigue to this competition, which had the appearance of a two-horse race throughout most of the offseason. James did have his best seasons under Bricillo, and could surprise. Coogan has championship pedigree from his college days, and could eventually see some reps, definitely making it one of the positions to watch.
Veterans Cordell Volson and Jackson Slater are the primary competitors in this battle. Volson has 48 starts under his belt after being selected by the Bengals in the fourth round in 2022. He missed the 2025 season after undergoing surgery on his right shoulder last August. Slater enters his second season after being selected in the fifth round last year. He played 34 snaps last season, all of which came in the season finale against the Jaguars. Someone needs to emerge quickly to help solidify the right side, especially with questions surrounding Latham at right tackle.
#james
Tennessee made some significant changes to its roster throughout the offseason and will look a lot different than it did in 2025, but it still has some questions to answer on both sides of the ball. In his preseason preview, ESPN's Turron Davenport outlines three key position battles to watch once camp kicks off that could have a major impact on the outcome of the 2026 season.
There's no slam-dunk favorite in the three-way battle between veterans Austin Schlottmann and Andre James and rookie Pat Coogan. Schlottmann has the upper hand, having played in Daboll's offense the past two seasons. But James, a late addition during minicamp, started 31 games for offensive line coach Carmen Bricillo with the Raiders in 2022 and 2023. Coogan has an outside shot at the job because of his top-level communication skills, but he has an uphill battle after being selected in the sixth round in April.
The late addition of James adds some more intrigue to this competition, which had the appearance of a two-horse race throughout most of the offseason. James did have his best seasons under Bricillo, and could surprise. Coogan has championship pedigree from his college days, and could eventually see some reps, definitely making it one of the positions to watch.
Veterans Cordell Volson and Jackson Slater are the primary competitors in this battle. Volson has 48 starts under his belt after being selected by the Bengals in the fourth round in 2022. He missed the 2025 season after undergoing surgery on his right shoulder last August. Slater enters his second season after being selected in the fifth round last year. He played 34 snaps last season, all of which came in the season finale against the Jaguars. Someone needs to emerge quickly to help solidify the right side, especially with questions surrounding Latham at right tackle.
#james
11 days ago
Texas was the last school to take part in 2026 SEC media days in Tampa, Florida.
Quarterback Arch Manning enters his fourth season as a redshirt junior at Texas in 2026. He represented the Longhorns at SEC media days on Thursday.
Manning is the son of Cooper Manning. He is also the grandson of Archie Manning and the nephew of Eli Manning and former Vol Peyton Manning.
The 6-foot-4, 222-pound quarterback will play at Tennessee on Sept. 26. The SEC matchup will mark the first time the Longhorns will play at Tennessee.
Arch Manning discussed facing the Vols during the 2026 regular season.
#season
Quarterback Arch Manning enters his fourth season as a redshirt junior at Texas in 2026. He represented the Longhorns at SEC media days on Thursday.
Manning is the son of Cooper Manning. He is also the grandson of Archie Manning and the nephew of Eli Manning and former Vol Peyton Manning.
The 6-foot-4, 222-pound quarterback will play at Tennessee on Sept. 26. The SEC matchup will mark the first time the Longhorns will play at Tennessee.
Arch Manning discussed facing the Vols during the 2026 regular season.
#season
12 days ago
Bailey Phillips got to live one of the best days of her life all over again, this time watching it on a screen surrounded by the people who love her most.
Her eight-minute segment aired nationally on July 23 for the first time as part of ESPN's "My Wish" series, chronicling her ultimate Tennessee football gameday with the Vols. Make-A-Wish East Tennessee marked the moment with a watch party at The Wishing Place powered by JTV.
"It was good," Bailey said of having her family and friends there to watch it with her.
It was the first wish UT athletics had ever granted, according to her grandfather, John Rosser.
"A lot of tears are running out of my eyes," Rosser said. "But it brought back some very good memories of what she was able to go through."
#wish
Her eight-minute segment aired nationally on July 23 for the first time as part of ESPN's "My Wish" series, chronicling her ultimate Tennessee football gameday with the Vols. Make-A-Wish East Tennessee marked the moment with a watch party at The Wishing Place powered by JTV.
"It was good," Bailey said of having her family and friends there to watch it with her.
It was the first wish UT athletics had ever granted, according to her grandfather, John Rosser.
"A lot of tears are running out of my eyes," Rosser said. "But it brought back some very good memories of what she was able to go through."
#wish
12 days ago
Bailey Phillips got to live one of the best days of her life all over again, this time watching it on a screen surrounded by the people who love her most.
Her eight-minute segment aired nationally on July 23 for the first time as part of ESPN's "My Wish" series, chronicling her ultimate Tennessee football gameday with the Vols. Make-A-Wish East Tennessee marked the moment with a watch party at The Wishing Place powered by JTV.
"It was good," Bailey said of having her family and friends there to watch it with her.
It was the first wish UT athletics had ever granted, according to her grandfather, John Rosser.
"A lot of tears are running out of my eyes," Rosser said. "But it brought back some very good memories of what she was able to go through."
#wish
Her eight-minute segment aired nationally on July 23 for the first time as part of ESPN's "My Wish" series, chronicling her ultimate Tennessee football gameday with the Vols. Make-A-Wish East Tennessee marked the moment with a watch party at The Wishing Place powered by JTV.
"It was good," Bailey said of having her family and friends there to watch it with her.
It was the first wish UT athletics had ever granted, according to her grandfather, John Rosser.
"A lot of tears are running out of my eyes," Rosser said. "But it brought back some very good memories of what she was able to go through."
#wish
13 days ago
David Gabriel Georges will play for Tennessee football.
The five-star running back from Chattanooga Baylor committed to the Vols on July 22, choosing them over Ohio State and Ole Miss in a major recruiting win for coach Josh Heupel.
The 6-foot, 205-pound Gabriel Georges is ranked as the No. 2 running back in the 2027 class and the top overall prospect in Tennessee, according to the 247Sports Composite.
Gabriel Georges ran for 1,756 yards and 27 touchdowns last season, leading Baylor to a 12-0 record and the program’s first undefeated season since 1973. He was named MaxPreps’ national player of the year, making him the first Canadian-born player to win the award.
Here's how Tennessee fans and players reacted to Gabriel Georges' decision:
#gabriel #running #player
The five-star running back from Chattanooga Baylor committed to the Vols on July 22, choosing them over Ohio State and Ole Miss in a major recruiting win for coach Josh Heupel.
The 6-foot, 205-pound Gabriel Georges is ranked as the No. 2 running back in the 2027 class and the top overall prospect in Tennessee, according to the 247Sports Composite.
Gabriel Georges ran for 1,756 yards and 27 touchdowns last season, leading Baylor to a 12-0 record and the program’s first undefeated season since 1973. He was named MaxPreps’ national player of the year, making him the first Canadian-born player to win the award.
Here's how Tennessee fans and players reacted to Gabriel Georges' decision:
#gabriel #running #player
13 days ago
David Gabriel Georges will play for Tennessee football.
The five-star running back from Chattanooga Baylor committed to the Vols on July 22, choosing them over Ohio State and Ole Miss in a major recruiting win for coach Josh Heupel.
The 6-foot, 205-pound Gabriel Georges is ranked as the No. 2 running back in the 2027 class and the top overall prospect in Tennessee, according to the 247Sports Composite.
Gabriel Georges ran for 1,756 yards and 27 touchdowns last season, leading Baylor to a 12-0 record and the program’s first undefeated season since 1973. He was named MaxPreps’ national player of the year, making him the first Canadian-born player to win the award.
Here's how Tennessee fans and players reacted to Gabriel Georges' decision:
#baylor #running #back #season
The five-star running back from Chattanooga Baylor committed to the Vols on July 22, choosing them over Ohio State and Ole Miss in a major recruiting win for coach Josh Heupel.
The 6-foot, 205-pound Gabriel Georges is ranked as the No. 2 running back in the 2027 class and the top overall prospect in Tennessee, according to the 247Sports Composite.
Gabriel Georges ran for 1,756 yards and 27 touchdowns last season, leading Baylor to a 12-0 record and the program’s first undefeated season since 1973. He was named MaxPreps’ national player of the year, making him the first Canadian-born player to win the award.
Here's how Tennessee fans and players reacted to Gabriel Georges' decision:
#baylor #running #back #season
13 days ago
Tennessee men's basketball and head coach Rick Barnes announced their 2026-27 nonconference schedule.
The Vols will play 14 nonconference games, including nine contests at home. Tennessee will also play eight games against Power Five opponents, including six matchups at Food City Center.
Tennessee's nonconference schedule will be contested Nov. 3-Dec. 29. The Vols will open their 2026-27 campaign on Nov. 3 for a second consecutive year, hosting Wofford at Food City Center.
Tennessee will also host Radford (Nov. 9), Tennessee State (Nov. 13), Michigan State (Nov. 17), Coastal Carolina (Nov. 20), Florida State in the ACC/SEC Challenge (Dec. 1), Morehead State (Dec. 16), Marist (Dec. 20) and Norfolk State (Dec. 29).
For a second consecutive season, Tennessee will compete in the Players Era Championship in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Vols will open tournament play versus Maryland on Nov. 24. Tennessee will play either Iowa State or San Diego State on Nov. 26 before ending tournament play on Nov. 27.
#state #Food
The Vols will play 14 nonconference games, including nine contests at home. Tennessee will also play eight games against Power Five opponents, including six matchups at Food City Center.
Tennessee's nonconference schedule will be contested Nov. 3-Dec. 29. The Vols will open their 2026-27 campaign on Nov. 3 for a second consecutive year, hosting Wofford at Food City Center.
Tennessee will also host Radford (Nov. 9), Tennessee State (Nov. 13), Michigan State (Nov. 17), Coastal Carolina (Nov. 20), Florida State in the ACC/SEC Challenge (Dec. 1), Morehead State (Dec. 16), Marist (Dec. 20) and Norfolk State (Dec. 29).
For a second consecutive season, Tennessee will compete in the Players Era Championship in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Vols will open tournament play versus Maryland on Nov. 24. Tennessee will play either Iowa State or San Diego State on Nov. 26 before ending tournament play on Nov. 27.
#state #Food
13 days ago
Former Lady Vols basketball player Zee Spearman was arrested for a DUI in Lawrenceville, Georgia, during the summer before her senior season, according to a police report obtained by USA TODAY Sports.
The 6-foot-4 forward played in all 30 of Tennessee's games last season and was not publicly suspended after the incident. Tennessee did not immediately respond to a request for comment. If she was disciplined by Lady Vols head coach Kim Caldwell, it was not made public. According to USA TODAY Sports, Caldwell was aware of Spearman’s arrest when it occurred.
Unlike Spearman, a pair of two arrests in less than three months before the of start of the season, led to the dismissal of Lady Vols guard Ruby Whitehorn was acknowledged by UT.
Whitehorn was arrested on Aug. 8 in Knox County after a domestic dispute. Whitehorn faced two felony charges, but eventually pleaded guilty to two misdemeanors. Whitehorn was reinstated to the team after serving a lengthy suspension, but was later dismissed on Nov. 2 after she was charged with simple possession on Oct. 30.
Spearman was pulled over by a Gwinnett County officer at 1:10 a.m. on June 13, 2025 due to the visible speed of her Chevrolet Malibu. Spearman was driving an estimated 100 mph, according to the report, and she told the officer she was going 75 mph when she last looked. The speed limit on the highway was 55 mph.
#caldwell
The 6-foot-4 forward played in all 30 of Tennessee's games last season and was not publicly suspended after the incident. Tennessee did not immediately respond to a request for comment. If she was disciplined by Lady Vols head coach Kim Caldwell, it was not made public. According to USA TODAY Sports, Caldwell was aware of Spearman’s arrest when it occurred.
Unlike Spearman, a pair of two arrests in less than three months before the of start of the season, led to the dismissal of Lady Vols guard Ruby Whitehorn was acknowledged by UT.
Whitehorn was arrested on Aug. 8 in Knox County after a domestic dispute. Whitehorn faced two felony charges, but eventually pleaded guilty to two misdemeanors. Whitehorn was reinstated to the team after serving a lengthy suspension, but was later dismissed on Nov. 2 after she was charged with simple possession on Oct. 30.
Spearman was pulled over by a Gwinnett County officer at 1:10 a.m. on June 13, 2025 due to the visible speed of her Chevrolet Malibu. Spearman was driving an estimated 100 mph, according to the report, and she told the officer she was going 75 mph when she last looked. The speed limit on the highway was 55 mph.
#caldwell
13 days ago
Former Lady Vols basketball player Zee Spearman was arrested for a DUI in Lawrenceville, Georgia, during the summer before her senior season, according to a police report obtained by USA TODAY Sports.
The 6-foot-4 forward played in all 30 of Tennessee's games last season and was not publicly suspended after the incident. Tennessee did not immediately respond to a request for comment. If she was disciplined by Lady Vols head coach Kim Caldwell, it was not made public. According to USA TODAY Sports, Caldwell was aware of Spearman’s arrest when it occurred.
Unlike Spearman, a pair of two arrests in less than three months before the of start of the season, led to the dismissal of Lady Vols guard Ruby Whitehorn was acknowledged by UT.
Whitehorn was arrested on Aug. 8 in Knox County after a domestic dispute. Whitehorn faced two felony charges, but eventually pleaded guilty to two misdemeanors. Whitehorn was reinstated to the team after serving a lengthy suspension, but was later dismissed on Nov. 2 after she was charged with simple possession on Oct. 30.
Spearman was pulled over by a Gwinnett County officer at 1:10 a.m. on June 13, 2025 due to the visible speed of her Chevrolet Malibu. Spearman was driving an estimated 100 mph, according to the report, and she told the officer she was going 75 mph when she last looked. The speed limit on the highway was 55 mph.
#lady #season
The 6-foot-4 forward played in all 30 of Tennessee's games last season and was not publicly suspended after the incident. Tennessee did not immediately respond to a request for comment. If she was disciplined by Lady Vols head coach Kim Caldwell, it was not made public. According to USA TODAY Sports, Caldwell was aware of Spearman’s arrest when it occurred.
Unlike Spearman, a pair of two arrests in less than three months before the of start of the season, led to the dismissal of Lady Vols guard Ruby Whitehorn was acknowledged by UT.
Whitehorn was arrested on Aug. 8 in Knox County after a domestic dispute. Whitehorn faced two felony charges, but eventually pleaded guilty to two misdemeanors. Whitehorn was reinstated to the team after serving a lengthy suspension, but was later dismissed on Nov. 2 after she was charged with simple possession on Oct. 30.
Spearman was pulled over by a Gwinnett County officer at 1:10 a.m. on June 13, 2025 due to the visible speed of her Chevrolet Malibu. Spearman was driving an estimated 100 mph, according to the report, and she told the officer she was going 75 mph when she last looked. The speed limit on the highway was 55 mph.
#lady #season
14 days ago
The last time South Carolina football welcomed Tennessee to Williams-Brice Stadium, the Gamecocks scored so many touchdowns they ran out of fireworks.
The 63-38 victory over the Vols is a major highlight from the last five seasons under coach Shane Beamer but that was four years ago.
The Vols got revenge a season later with a 41-20 victory in Knoxville but the two teams haven't met since. They will this year when South Carolina hosts Tennessee on Oct. 24.
Beamer fielded various questions at 2026 SEC Media Days in Tampa, Florida, on July 21, mostly about improving from the 4-8 record last year. But Beamer got one question about whether South Carolina upped its fireworks budget in anticipation of the Vols' arrival.
"You said that not me," Beamer said to the reporter. "That was a great night back in 2022, there's no doubt about it. We know it'll be a huge challenge when they come to town this year."
#beamer #carolina #last #fireworks
The 63-38 victory over the Vols is a major highlight from the last five seasons under coach Shane Beamer but that was four years ago.
The Vols got revenge a season later with a 41-20 victory in Knoxville but the two teams haven't met since. They will this year when South Carolina hosts Tennessee on Oct. 24.
Beamer fielded various questions at 2026 SEC Media Days in Tampa, Florida, on July 21, mostly about improving from the 4-8 record last year. But Beamer got one question about whether South Carolina upped its fireworks budget in anticipation of the Vols' arrival.
"You said that not me," Beamer said to the reporter. "That was a great night back in 2022, there's no doubt about it. We know it'll be a huge challenge when they come to town this year."
#beamer #carolina #last #fireworks
14 days ago
Tennessee and South Carolina will renew their football series in 2026. The Vols and Gamecocks last played in 2023 with Tennessee winning, 41-20, at Neyland Stadium.
The Gamecocks will host Tennessee on Oct. 24 at Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia, South Carolina. The last time the two schools faced each other at Williams-Brice Stadium was on Nov. 19, 2022. South Carolina was victorious, 63-38.
Shane Beamer enters his sixth season as the Gamecocks' head coach in 2026. He took part in SEC football media days on Tuesday in Tampa, Florida and reflected on the 2022 Tennessee-South Carolina contest.
"That was a great night back in 2022," Beamer said. "There's no doubt about it. We know it will be a huge challenge when they come to town this year. Another one, I got asked about playing Georgia again. It's been weird not playing Tennessee the last couple of years, so it will be great having Tennessee back on the schedule this season, too, along with Florida. Three old SEC East opponents and rivals for South Carolina.
"Got a ton of respect for coach (Josh) Heupel and the way he does things. We know he's going to have a really good team coming to town. I was so impressed just watching SEC media day yesterday, the three players that he brought. I mean, so impressed with those three guys just as people and some of their comments for sure. No, that will be a big one when we get to that one, and hopefully we can have the offensive output that we had the last time they were in town."
#town #williams
The Gamecocks will host Tennessee on Oct. 24 at Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia, South Carolina. The last time the two schools faced each other at Williams-Brice Stadium was on Nov. 19, 2022. South Carolina was victorious, 63-38.
Shane Beamer enters his sixth season as the Gamecocks' head coach in 2026. He took part in SEC football media days on Tuesday in Tampa, Florida and reflected on the 2022 Tennessee-South Carolina contest.
"That was a great night back in 2022," Beamer said. "There's no doubt about it. We know it will be a huge challenge when they come to town this year. Another one, I got asked about playing Georgia again. It's been weird not playing Tennessee the last couple of years, so it will be great having Tennessee back on the schedule this season, too, along with Florida. Three old SEC East opponents and rivals for South Carolina.
"Got a ton of respect for coach (Josh) Heupel and the way he does things. We know he's going to have a really good team coming to town. I was so impressed just watching SEC media day yesterday, the three players that he brought. I mean, so impressed with those three guys just as people and some of their comments for sure. No, that will be a big one when we get to that one, and hopefully we can have the offensive output that we had the last time they were in town."
#town #williams
14 days ago
2027 five-star prospect David Gabriel Georges will announce his college commitment on Wednesday. The 6-foot, 205-pound running back will choose between Tennessee, Ohio State and Ole Miss.
Gabriel Georges' commitment time is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. EDT on Wednesday.
He is from Baylor School in Chattanooga, Tennessee. 247Sports ranks the 2027 five-star as the No. 2 running back nationally and No. 1 prospect in Tennessee.
Tennessee offered Gabriel Georges a scholarship on July 31, 2024, while the Buckeyes extended an offer on Aug. 1, 2024. Ole Miss also offered a scholarship to Gabriel Georges on July 31, 2024.
Ahead of his decision on Wednesday, the Vols have 17 commitments in their 2027 football recruiting class: linebacker JP Peace, offensive tackle Princeton Uwaifo, quarterback Derrick Baker, athlete Jaden Butler, wide receiver KeSean Bowman, defensive back Carter Jamison and defensive back Brandon Leavell, tight end Malik Howard, defensive lineman Christian Mays, cornerback Dylan Haley, linebacker Kenneth Simon II, kicker Ford Fehling, long snapper Sam McKeown, offensive tackle Q'Mari Hudson, athlete Dayon Cooper, safety Marcus Jones and offensive tackle Niko Kampas.
#wednesday
Gabriel Georges' commitment time is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. EDT on Wednesday.
He is from Baylor School in Chattanooga, Tennessee. 247Sports ranks the 2027 five-star as the No. 2 running back nationally and No. 1 prospect in Tennessee.
Tennessee offered Gabriel Georges a scholarship on July 31, 2024, while the Buckeyes extended an offer on Aug. 1, 2024. Ole Miss also offered a scholarship to Gabriel Georges on July 31, 2024.
Ahead of his decision on Wednesday, the Vols have 17 commitments in their 2027 football recruiting class: linebacker JP Peace, offensive tackle Princeton Uwaifo, quarterback Derrick Baker, athlete Jaden Butler, wide receiver KeSean Bowman, defensive back Carter Jamison and defensive back Brandon Leavell, tight end Malik Howard, defensive lineman Christian Mays, cornerback Dylan Haley, linebacker Kenneth Simon II, kicker Ford Fehling, long snapper Sam McKeown, offensive tackle Q'Mari Hudson, athlete Dayon Cooper, safety Marcus Jones and offensive tackle Niko Kampas.
#wednesday
14 days ago
Alex Golesh made his SEC football media days debut on Tuesday in Tampa, Florida. He was hired as Auburn's head coach on Nov. 30, 2025.
Golesh returns to the SEC after serving as Tennessee's offensive coordinator and tight ends coach from 2021-22.
He left the Vols to become USF's head coach from 2023-25. The former Tennessee ******* istant led the Bulls to a 23-15 (14-10 AAC) record and two bowl game wins.
"I am humbled and grateful to have been named the head football coach at Auburn University seven months ago, and it has been an incredible journey up until this point," Golesh said at SEC media days. "Thankful to be back in Tampa. We spent just over three years here and met some incredible people here, some dear friends still. This community was incredible to my family. I am really, really thankful for my time here and the way we got treated and the commitment that was made to us here in Tampa.
"Thankful to Dr. (Christopher) Roberts and our administration, and them welcoming us to Auburn. What they've done for us through these first seven months in giving us the ability to go hire an elite staff, to go build the way we need to. Thankful to John Cohen for bringing me to Auburn, our board of trustees that continues to pour into our program. Beyond thankful to the Auburn family for welcoming us, my family."
#family
Golesh returns to the SEC after serving as Tennessee's offensive coordinator and tight ends coach from 2021-22.
He left the Vols to become USF's head coach from 2023-25. The former Tennessee ******* istant led the Bulls to a 23-15 (14-10 AAC) record and two bowl game wins.
"I am humbled and grateful to have been named the head football coach at Auburn University seven months ago, and it has been an incredible journey up until this point," Golesh said at SEC media days. "Thankful to be back in Tampa. We spent just over three years here and met some incredible people here, some dear friends still. This community was incredible to my family. I am really, really thankful for my time here and the way we got treated and the commitment that was made to us here in Tampa.
"Thankful to Dr. (Christopher) Roberts and our administration, and them welcoming us to Auburn. What they've done for us through these first seven months in giving us the ability to go hire an elite staff, to go build the way we need to. Thankful to John Cohen for bringing me to Auburn, our board of trustees that continues to pour into our program. Beyond thankful to the Auburn family for welcoming us, my family."
#family
