Tennessee parts ways with defensive coordinator Tim Banks
Banks led Tennessee defense from 2021-2025
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) - Tennessee football has parted ways with longtime defensive coordinator Tim Banks. WVLT media partner Volquest was the first to report the news.
Banks led the Tennessee defense in all five seasons of Josh Heupel’s tenure in Knoxville.
The Tennessee defense was one of the nation’s best in 2024, but struggled mightily in 2025.
The Volunteers ranked 88th in total defense among FBS teams, allowing 28.8 points per game, which was the 92nd most in the nation.
Banks signed a contract extension last offseason after he was a finalist for the 2024 Broyles Award, given annually to college football’s top assistant coach. Tennessee reportedly owes Banks $4.3 million for firing him without cause.
In four games against ranked opponents this season, Tennessee allowed 39.75 points per game.
Heupel spoke on Banks Monday as well.
“I want to thank Tim for everything he has done for Tennessee the last five seasons,” Heupel said. “He helped restore our program to national prominence. More importantly, Tim is a great man of character and someone I have the utmost respect for. We wish Tim all the best moving forward. These are tough decisions but one I ultimately felt was necessary for the future of our program. We are fully committed to identifying our next defensive coordinator who will uphold the standard that Tennessee has historically been known for.”
Linebackers coach William Inge is expected to serve as Tennessee’s interim defensive coordinator. The Vols face Illinois in the Music City Bowl on December 30th.
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