As the University of Tennessee football program continues to recruit top talent for the future, head coach Josh Heupel is leaving no stone unturned in building a team that can compete at the highest levels in the SEC. One of the key positions to address in any program is the running back spot, and with uncertainty surrounding the future of current running back Dylan Sampson, Tennessee is already taking proactive steps to ensure a strong pipeline at the position.
Recently, reports surfaced that Heupel had hosted a potential replacement for Sampson, a player who could have a significant impact on the Volunteers’ offense for years to come. This visit signals more than just interest in a future running back; it is a statement about the long-term vision that Heupel has for his program, and it sheds light on the recruiting strategy that has made Tennessee one of the more exciting teams to watch in recent seasons. In this blog post, we’ll break down the potential ramifications of this visit, the importance of securing top-tier running back talent, and what Tennessee fans can expect from Heupel’s recruiting efforts moving forward.
The Current State of Tennessee’s Running Back Room
Before delving into the specifics of the visit, it’s essential to first examine the current state of Tennessee’s running back room. Dylan Sampson, a highly touted freshman in 2023, emerged as a potential breakout player, showing flashes of brilliance with his speed, vision, and ability to break tackles. However, his future with the program has been called into question after several months of speculation surrounding his role within the offense.
Sampson’s position on the depth chart for the 2025 season remains uncertain, and whether he stays or leaves, the Vols will likely need to bring in fresh talent to solidify the position moving forward. Under Heupel’s high-tempo, fast-paced offensive system, running backs are key components, not just as ball carriers, but also as pass-catchers and blockers in the open field. It’s no secret that a strong, versatile backfield is a necessity for success in the SEC, and Heupel understands that recruiting the right players is crucial to Tennessee’s long-term success.
This is where the potential recruit visiting Tennessee comes into play. By hosting this player, Heupel is not only showing the Vols’ interest in continuing to develop a potent running back corps but is also sending a message about the future direction of the program.
Heupel’s Vision for the Running Back Position
Josh Heupel has already demonstrated a keen eye for offensive talent during his tenure as head coach. Since his arrival in Knoxville, Heupel has implemented an up-tempo offense that thrives on explosive plays and creative scheming. The running back position, particularly in Heupel’s system, isn’t just about ground and pound; it’s about creating mismatches and opportunities to generate yardage in both the running and passing game.
Heupel has already shown an ability to utilize multiple running backs, mixing in different skill sets to maximize their effectiveness. In 2023, Tennessee’s offense was one of the most dynamic in the country, largely thanks to the contributions from multiple backs who were able to shine in different ways. Whether it was a bruising runner for short-yardage situations or a speedster for outside runs and screen passes, the Vols’ backfield offered a lot of versatility.
It is likely that Heupel’s vision for the future of Tennessee’s backfield involves adding players who can complement each other, creating a balanced attack that keeps opposing defenses guessing. Given the importance of the running back position in this offense, it’s no surprise that Heupel is making it a priority to add top-tier talent to his roster.
The Impact of Dylan Sampson’s Potential Departure
Although there has been speculation about Dylan Sampson’s future with the team, the running back position for Tennessee will remain a critical focus, whether he stays or leaves. Sampson has shown flashes of what he could become but has faced competition from other players in the system. While his departure is not guaranteed, it’s clear that Heupel is being proactive by recruiting potential replacements.
If Sampson does leave, Tennessee’s backfield would be left with a mix of experienced players and unproven talent. Securing a running back of high caliber to replace or complement Sampson would help provide continuity and depth in a crucial position. The SEC is notorious for its physical style of play, and having multiple strong running backs is a necessity if Tennessee hopes to compete at a championship level. Even if Sampson remains with the team, adding another highly regarded running back can only make the team stronger, creating healthy competition and offering the Vols more weapons to work with on offense.
The Recruit: A Potential Dylan Sampson Replacement
While the specific details about the recruit who recently visited Tennessee have yet to fully materialize, we do know that the player being considered for the position is a highly skilled running back with the potential to thrive in Heupel’s system. Whether they are already a known commodity in the recruiting world or a hidden gem who has yet to make a big splash, the fact that Tennessee is showing interest signals their commitment to securing the best talent possible.
Given Heupel’s offensive style, it is likely that the recruit being hosted is someone who can make an immediate impact. Ideally, this player would bring a unique skill set that complements the current roster. Whether they excel as a power back, a shifty and elusive runner, or a pass-catching threat out of the backfield, Heupel and his staff are looking for someone who can fit seamlessly into the high-octane offense and contribute from day one.
What This Means for Tennessee Football’s Future
The decision to host a potential replacement for Dylan Sampson speaks volumes about Tennessee’s long-term football strategy. Heupel is building a program that is sustainable, competitive, and capable of challenging the best teams in the SEC year in and year out. While the current roster has plenty of talent, recruiting elite players is crucial to maintaining success.
The Vols’ strong recruiting efforts and ability to attract high-level prospects like this potential running back are a direct reflection of the work Heupel has done to elevate the program. It also serves as a reminder that Tennessee is far from satisfied with just being competitive—they want to be dominant, and they want to have the depth to compete at the highest levels of college football.
With the future of the running back position in flux, the visit from this potential recruit could be the start of an exciting new era for Tennessee football. As Heupel continues to build on the momentum he has created in Knoxville, one thing is clear: the Volunteers are poised to remain a force in the SEC for years to come.