ESPN REPORT: Vols Head Coach Josh Heupel Shocks College Football, Turns Down Stunning $7.5 Million Offer from South Carolina and Badgers — Vows Loyalty to Vols: “I Have No Plans Beyond Being the Tennessee Vols Head Coach…..

ESPN REPORT: Vols Head Coach Josh Heupel Shocks College Football, Turns Down Stunning $7.5 Million Offer from South Carolina and Badgers — Vows Loyalty to Vols: “I Have No Plans Beyond Being the Tennessee Vols Head Coach

Knoxville, TN — April 23, 2025

In a move that has rocked the college football world, Tennessee Volunteers Head Coach Josh Heupel has reportedly turned down a jaw-dropping $7.5 million per year offer to leave Knoxville — an offer jointly extended by both South Carolina and Wisconsin in a rare and aggressive recruitment attempt, sources tell ESPN.

The dual-offer, which sources say would have made Heupel one of the highest-paid coaches in college football, came amid growing speculation that the coach might be looking for a new challenge after back-to-back top-10 finishes with the Vols. However, Heupel stunned fans and analysts alike with his firm response:

“I have no plans beyond being the Tennessee Vols Head Coach,” Heupel told reporters during a brief press appearance Tuesday night. “This program, this university, and this fanbase mean the world to me. We’re building something special here, and I’m not finished.”

The 46-year-old coach, who took over at Tennessee in 2021, has revitalized the program, delivering high-powered offense and a culture shift that’s brought the Vols back into national prominence. Under Heupel’s leadership, Tennessee has gone 36-13 and made consecutive New Year’s Six bowl appearances.

Sources close to both South Carolina and Wisconsin confirm that Heupel was offered complete control over staffing decisions and significant upgrades to football operations — part of a competitive bid to lure him away from Rocky Top. Yet, Heupel’s refusal underscores his commitment to the Vols’ long-term success.

“He turned down what most would consider a dream offer,” one SEC insider said. “It speaks volumes about his loyalty and belief in what he’s building at Tennessee.”

The decision also puts Tennessee boosters and administration on notice, as discussions are now underway to potentially restructure Heupel’s current contract, ensuring he remains a fixture in Knoxville for years to come.

For Vols fans, it’s a major win — not just for the upcoming season, but for the stability and future of a program eager to return to championship contention.

More updates to come as the story develops.

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