In a groundbreaking move that has energized fans across the state and the nation, the University of Tennessee officially announced today that former Volunteers quarterback and NFL standout Joshua Dobbs has been appointed as an assistant coach for the Tennessee Volunteers football program. The announcement came just minutes ago via a press release from the university’s athletics department, marking a powerful return to Rocky Top for one of the program’s most beloved figures.
Dobbs, who starred at Tennessee from 2013 to 2016, became a fan favorite not only for his on-field heroics but also for his leadership, intelligence, and class. Known as the “Rocket Scientist Quarterback,” Dobbs balanced a rigorous aerospace engineering degree with the pressures of SEC football, exemplifying what it means to be a student-athlete.
During his time in Knoxville, Dobbs threw for over 7,000 yards and 53 touchdowns, while rushing for an additional 32 scores. He led the Vols to back-to-back 9-win seasons and bowl victories in 2015 and 2016, bringing Tennessee back into national relevance during a transitional era. His deep connection with the university and its fans never waned, even as he went on to play in the NFL for several teams, most recently the Minnesota Vikings and the Arizona Cardinals.
Now, as he transitions into coaching, Dobbs will serve as an offensive assistant, with a focus on quarterback development and offensive strategy. Head Coach Josh Heupel praised the hiring, saying, “Joshua Dobbs is the epitome of what Tennessee football stands for — character, excellence, and intelligence. His presence on our coaching staff will immediately benefit our quarterbacks and bring a unique, experienced voice to the locker room.”
Sources close to the program say Dobbs had been contemplating a move into coaching for some time and felt a calling to return to his alma mater to help guide the next generation of Vols. The hire is already being hailed as a home-run move by analysts and fans alike.
Dobbs shared his thoughts in a brief statement: “Tennessee gave me everything. It’s an honor to return home and give back to the program and the players. I can’t wait to get to work.”
With Dobbs on the sideline, the future of Tennessee football just got a whole lot brighter.
