Breaking news:  Tennessee Volunteers head coach Josh Heupel has reportedly declined a staggering $7.5 million annual offer from powerhouse programs Georgia and Notre Dame, choosing instead to remain at the helm in Knoxville.

Breaking news:  Tennessee Volunteers head coach Josh Heupel has reportedly declined a staggering $7.5 million annual offer from powerhouse programs Georgia and Notre Dame, choosing instead to remain at the helm in Knoxville.

This decision underscores Heupel’s deep commitment to the Volunteers and his vision for the program’s future.

 

Heupel’s tenure at Tennessee has been marked by a remarkable transformation. Since taking over in 2021, he has revitalized a struggling program, leading the Volunteers to their first 11-win season in over two decades and a significant victory over Alabama, ending a 15-game losing streak to the Crimson Tide. Under his leadership, Tennessee has secured multiple top-10 finishes and a berth in the newly expanded College Football Playoff, reflecting the team’s resurgence on the national stage .

 

In recognition of his achievements and to secure his continued leadership, the University of Tennessee offered Heupel a groundbreaking 8-year, $8.89 million contract extension, featuring a unique $7 million annual retention bonus through 2035. This unprecedented deal not only makes Heupel one of the highest-paid coaches in college football but also demonstrates the university’s unwavering support for his vision .

 

Heupel’s decision to stay, despite lucrative offers elsewhere, has been met with widespread acclaim from fans and university officials alike. Athletic Director Danny White lauded the move as a clear statement of belief in Heupel’s leadership and the program’s direction. With a renewed contract and a strong foundation, the Volunteers are poised to continue their ascent in the competitive landscape of college football.