Tennessee Officially Announces Mike Ekeler as Special Teams Coordinator and Outside Linebackers Coach

Matt Ray | Mar 4, 2021

On Monday, sources confirmed to VR2 on SI, Mike Ekeler was expected to complete Josh Heupel's on-field staff. Tennessee has now officially announced Ekeler's hiring and what he will coach.

A press release from the university states:

"Mike Ekeler, who owns more than 15 years of Power Five coaching experience, has been tabbed as Tennessee's outside linebackers coach and special teams coordinator, head coach Josh Heupel announced on Thursday. Ekeler returns to the Southeastern Conference after coaching inside linebackers and special teams at Georgia from 2014-15, and he served on LSU's 2007 SEC and national championship staff. He reunites with Heupel as the two served as graduate assistants together at Oklahoma in 2004. Ekeler spent two seasons on staff in Norman, with the Sooners reaching the BCS National Championship Game both years."

"Mike is one of the most engaging and charismatic leaders I know," Head Coach Josh Heupel said. "The energy he will bring to our football team, in addition to his track record of guiding successful special teams and defensive units will enhance our program. We are excited to welcome Coach Ekeler and his family to our Tennessee football family and look forward to watching him make a difference in the lives of our student-athletes."

Published Mar 4, 2021

MATT RAY

Matt Ray is the publisher of Sports Illustrated-FanNation's Volunteer Country, serving as a beat reporter covering football, recruiting, and occasionally other sports. Matt also is a lead analyst at Sports Illustrated All-American, Sports Illustrated lead authority in high school recruiting coverage. When not at work covering the Tennessee Volunteers or the recruiting trail, Matt enjoys spending time with his wife Destiny traveling the country.