Legendary NFL Star Willie Gault Joins Tennessee Volunteers Coaching Staff, Making History
KNOXVILLE, Tenn.
In a historic and inspiring move, the Tennessee Volunteers have announced the addition of NFL legend and Olympic athlete Willie Gault to their football coaching staff. The former wide receiver and track star returns to his alma mater, bringing a wealth of experience, leadership, and an elite athletic legacy that promises to elevate the program.
Gault, a standout wide receiver at Tennessee from 1979 to 1982, was a first-round NFL Draft pick who went on to win a Super Bowl with the Chicago Bears in 1985. Known for his blistering speed and precise route running, Gault finished his NFL career with 6,635 receiving yards and 44 touchdowns. Beyond football, he also represented the United States in track and field, competing at the highest levels internationally and qualifying for the 1980 Olympic team.
His unique combination of professional football success and Olympic-level training gives the Volunteers a rare asset on the sidelines. Gault’s role will focus on wide receivers and speed development, but his influence is expected to stretch far beyond the field.
“It’s a dream come true to come back home and give back to the university that shaped me,” Gault said at the press conference. “I want to inspire these young men not just to be great players, but to be great people and champions in life.”
Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel praised the hire as “transformational” for the program. “Willie Gault brings an unmatched pedigree. His presence alone is a motivator, but his knowledge of the game and experience at the highest levels of sport will directly impact our players.”
The move also marks a historic moment for Tennessee athletics, as Gault becomes the first Volunteer alumnus to return to the football program as both an Olympian and Super Bowl champion. His return is already energizing fans and alumni, many of whom remember his electrifying performances on both the gridiron and the track.
With the 2025 season on the horizon, expectations are higher than ever in Knoxville. And now, with Willie Gault back on Rocky Top, the Tennessee Volunteers are not just chasing wins — they’re chasing greatness.
This isn’t just a coaching hire. It’s a homecoming, a statement, and a powerful new chapter in Tennessee football history.