Tennessee made a monumental splash on the recruiting trail Saturday when it landed a commitment from five-star offensive tackle David Sanders Jr., the No. 3 prospect in the 2025 class and the top uncommitted player in the cycle. His addition to an already potent Volunteers haul gave head coach Josh Heupel another jolt of momentum ahead of what could be a special fourth year at the helm of a program on the rise.
From inheriting a mess in the wake of an NCAA violation-ridden Jeremy Pruitt era to building Tennessee back into a perennial SEC title hopeful, Heupel has done nothing but impressive work over the first couple of years of his tenure. Acquiring one of the premier players in this year’s recruiting cycle is just another step forward in the successful rebuilding process.
Heupel’s successes are not limited to the recruiting trail, though. Defeating some of the nation’s most prominent programs over the last couple of seasons legitimized the Vols as a playoff candidate in 2024.
RELATED (VIP): How five-star OT David Sanders Jr.’s recruitment evolved, from early offers to four finalists and a commitment
Here are eight of Heupel’s most impactful accomplishments throughout his Tennessee tenure: