ESPN News: Legendary Former QB Joshua Dobbs Returns to Tennessee Volunteers; Josh Heupel Makes Public Announcement…
By: Michael Grant | June 8, 2025 | Knoxville, Tennessee
In a landmark announcement that has sent ripples through the college football world, the University of Tennessee proudly revealed that Joshua Dobbs, one of the most beloved and dynamic quarterbacks in Volunteers history, is returning to Rocky Top to join the coaching staff. Head Coach Josh Heupel made the public declaration at a packed press conference today, confirming Dobbs’s appointment as a key offensive assistant, marking a highly anticipated homecoming for the star athlete-turned-coach.
This news is being hailed as a monumental step for the Tennessee football program, symbolizing a fusion of past glory and future promise. Dobbs, whose tenure as a player embodied leadership, resilience, and excellence, now returns with a fresh vision to help lead the Volunteers back to prominence in the fiercely competitive Southeastern Conference (SEC).
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Joshua Dobbs: From Volunteer Star to NFL Pro and Now Mentor
Joshua Dobbs first captivated the hearts of Tennessee fans when he arrived on campus in 2013. Over four seasons as the Volunteers’ starting quarterback, Dobbs was the epitome of grit and intelligence on the field. His collegiate career boasts:
Over 9,000 passing yards
More than 2,000 rushing yards
A combined total of 93 touchdowns
Three consecutive seasons passing for over 2,700 yards
A reputation as one of the most efficient dual-threat QBs in Tennessee history
Dobbs was not only a statistical leader but a cultural one — respected by teammates, coaches, and fans alike for his tireless work ethic, humility, and fierce competitive spirit.
His college success led to being drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Dobbs’s professional journey has since seen him suit up for multiple NFL teams, including the Jaguars, Titans, and Cardinals, gaining valuable experience as a backup and situational starter. Alongside his on-field skills, Dobbs developed a reputation as a team leader and student of the game — traits that have prepared him for a seamless transition into coaching.
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The Announcement: Coach Heupel’s Vision for Tennessee
At the press conference held at Neyland Stadium’s media center, Head Coach Josh Heupel expressed his excitement about Dobbs’s return.
> “Joshua Dobbs embodies everything we want in a Volunteer,” Heupel said. “His leadership, his understanding of our program’s traditions, and his passion for this university make him a perfect fit for our coaching staff. We are thrilled to welcome him back home.”
Heupel went on to outline Dobbs’s role as an Offensive Assistant Coach, where he will focus primarily on quarterback development and offensive strategy. This appointment is part of Heupel’s larger plan to infuse the coaching staff with individuals who understand the culture of Tennessee football from both a player and leadership perspective.
> “Joshua has seen the game at every level — college, NFL, and now as a coach. His unique perspective will help our young quarterbacks not only develop their skills but grow into leaders on and off the field.”
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Dobbs’s Homecoming: What It Means to Rocky Top
For fans and alumni, Dobbs’s return represents a heartfelt homecoming. Many remember his iconic moments on the field — from clutch fourth-quarter comebacks to his electrifying runs that brought Neyland Stadium to its feet.
Dobbs shared his feelings during the announcement:
> “Tennessee will always be home for me. This program gave me the foundation to grow as a player and person. I’m honored to come back and give back to the next generation of Volunteers. My goal is to help build a winning culture and bring pride back to Rocky Top.”
His decision to transition into coaching at Tennessee rather than pursuing opportunities elsewhere speaks volumes about his commitment to the program and its future.
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Impact on Recruiting and Player Development
Recruiting analysts and college football insiders see Dobbs’s addition as a huge boost for the Volunteers. His name carries weight nationally, especially among young quarterbacks and high school prospects who admire his playing style and leadership.
“Josh Dobbs has credibility,” said college football analyst Mike Reynolds. “He knows what it takes to succeed here and at the next level. Recruits will gravitate towards a coaching staff that includes a recent NFL player who walked their path.”
Current Volunteers quarterbacks have reportedly already started engaging with Dobbs informally, eager to learn from a legend who knows the pressures and expectations intimately.
Sophomore QB Cade Mays expressed enthusiasm on social media:
> “Can’t wait to work with Coach Dobbs. This is a game-changer for us.”
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The Broader Tennessee Football Renaissance
Dobbs’s hiring comes amid a broader period of optimism for Tennessee football under Josh Heupel’s leadership. After several seasons of rebuilding, the Vols have shown promising signs of returning to the national conversation. With top-tier recruits joining and the coaching staff solidifying, Dobbs’s presence brings a tangible boost to morale and credibility.
Fans see this move as a bold step toward reclaiming Tennessee’s place among SEC powerhouses like Alabama, Georgia, and LSU.
University Athletics Director Danny White praised the hire as:
> “A testament to our commitment to excellence and tradition. Bringing Joshua Dobbs back to Rocky Top is about more than just coaching. It’s about inspiring our players, energizing our fan base, and signaling that Tennessee is back.”
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Looking Ahead: The 2025 Season and Beyond
As the Volunteers prepare for the 2025 campaign, the focus will be on melding new talent with proven leadership. Dobbs will be integral to quarterback development — a position critical to any championship aspirations.
Heupel’s staff aims to capitalize on Dobbs’s insights into reading defenses, decision-making under pressure, and developing a modern, dynamic offense. There is optimism that Dobbs’s mentorship will elevate Tennessee’s QB room into one of the most respected in the SEC.
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A Symbol of Legacy and Loyalty
Perhaps the most compelling aspect of this announcement is the story it tells about legacy and loyalty. Joshua Dobbs is not merely returning as a coach; he is returning as a symbol of what it means to be a Volunteer — grit, determination, leadership, and heart.
In an era where college football programs are frequently buffeted by transfers and coaching changes, Dobbs’s choice to come home to Tennessee represents a refreshing commitment to continuity and culture.
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Conclusion
The return of Joshua Dobbs to the Tennessee Volunteers signals more than just a coaching hire. It marks the rekindling of a legacy that connects the past, present, and future of Rocky Top football. With Dobbs bringing his knowledge, leadership, and passion back to Knoxville, Tennessee fans have every reason to believe that the best days of Volunteer football are still ahead.
As Coach Josh Heupel so eloquently put it:
> “Joshua Dobbs is a Volunteer for life. And now, he’s helping us build the future.”
Vol Nation, get ready — the orange and white army just got a lot stronger.
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