KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Josh Heupel isn’t just adjusting — he’s transforming. The Tennessee Volunteers head coach has initiated sweeping changes across the program in a bold move to redefine the future of Vols football.
Coming off a successful 2024 campaign that saw Tennessee reach the College Football Playoff and claim a Big 12 Championship, Heupel is making calculated moves to maintain momentum while building long-term stability.
The offseason has been headlined by the stunning quarterback shuffle: former five-star quarterback Nico Iamaleava, once considered the face of the program, has transferred to UCLA amid NIL-related tensions. In response, Tennessee quickly secured Joey Aguilar — ironically, from UCLA — to step into the role, signaling a rapid and aggressive response from Heupel’s staff.
Beyond the quarterback room, the coaching staff has seen its own reshuffling. Special teams coach Mike Ekeler departed for Nebraska, leading to the internal promotion of Evan Crabtree and the hiring of NFL veteran John Bonamego — a strategic blend of continuity and elite experience.
Recruiting strategy has also taken a major turn. Heupel is shifting focus toward high school talent, aiming to bring in 25 freshmen in the 2025 class. This move signals a pivot away from reliance on the transfer portal and toward homegrown development — a bet on long-term growth over short-term fixes.
With a newly inked $8.89 million contract running through 2035, Heupel’s grip on the program is stronger than ever. Tennessee’s leadership is clearly betting big on his vision — and early results suggest it’s a winning formula.
