*lBREAKING: Josh Heupel and Tennessee Volunteers Part Ways After 5 Seasons…..
Knoxville, TN — The University of Tennessee and head football coach Josh Heupel have mutually agreed to part ways, the school announced Thursday, ending a five-year run that brought the Vols back to national relevance.
Athletic Director Danny White said the decision follows a thorough review of the program and discussions about the future direction of Tennessee football.
“Coach Heupel did an outstanding job re-energizing Vol Nation,” White said. “He brought an exciting brand of football back to Neyland Stadium, won big games, and helped our players succeed on and off the field. This was not an easy decision, but we believe now is the right time to take the next step as a program. We are grateful to Josh, Dawn, and their family for everything they’ve done for Tennessee.”
### Heupel’s tenure on Rocky Top
Hired in 2021, Heupel inherited a program coming off NCAA sanctions and back-to-back losing seasons. He immediately installed his up-tempo offense and changed the culture.
The breakthrough came in 2022. Led by QB Hendon Hooker, Tennessee went 11-2, beat Alabama for the first time in 15 years, and finished No. 6 in the final CFP rankings. Neyland Stadium sold out week after week, and “Vol Walk” was must-see TV again.
Over 5 seasons, Heupel went 42-21 overall. He won 10+ games twice, made 4 bowl appearances, and signed multiple top-15 recruiting classes. He was also known for developing quarterbacks and putting up top-10 offenses nationally three times.
In his statement, Heupel said: “Tennessee will always have a special place in our hearts. I’m thankful to Dr. Boyd, Danny, our staff, and most importantly our players. Vol Nation showed up every Saturday and gave us an incredible home-field advantage. We’re proud of what we built together, and we’re excited for what’s next.”
### What’s next for Tennessee
The Vols will launch a national coaching search immediately. Sources say Tennessee will target proven Power 4 head coaches and elite offensive minds who can maintain the fast-paced identity fans have embraced.
With Nico Iamaleava and a talented young roster still in place, plus NIL support and SEC resources, the Tennessee job is expected to be one of the most attractive openings this cycle.
Inside the building, Associate HC/OC Joey Halzle and DC Tim Banks will serve as co-interim coaches during the transition.
Heupel, 47, is expected to draw interest quickly from both college and NFL teams because of his offensive track record and QB development.
A press conference with Danny White is scheduled for Friday at 2 PM ET at the Neyland-Thompson Center.
A new chapter for Tennessee football begins.
