In a stunning and historic announcement, the University of Tennessee has confirmed that Dylan Sampson, the legendary running back and beloved figure in Volunteers football history, will return to the program in 2025 — this time, as a co-owner.
The news, shared early Thursday morning by University officials, has sent shockwaves through the world of college athletics and ignited excitement across Rocky Top. Sampson, who starred for the Vols and became a household name for his explosive playmaking and leadership on and off the field, will now rejoin the program not as a player or coach, but as a groundbreaking co-owner in a new era of collegiate sports governance.
This unprecedented move signals a bold step by the University of Tennessee as it adapts to the evolving landscape of college athletics, where name, image, and likeness (NIL), athlete empowerment, and innovative models of engagement are reshaping traditional boundaries.
“Dylan Sampson is more than just a football icon — he represents everything the Tennessee Volunteers stand for: resilience, excellence, and heart,” said University of Tennessee Chancellor Donde Plowman. “Having him return in this capacity is not only symbolic of our commitment to honoring our past, but also to redefining the future of college sports.”
Sampson, who earned legendary status during his time at Neyland Stadium with game-changing performances and a reputation as a leader in the locker room, expressed deep gratitude and excitement in a statement released shortly after the announcement.
“I’ve always said Tennessee is home, and now I get to give back in a way I never imagined. This isn’t just about football — it’s about legacy, community, and building something that lasts. I’m ready to get to work and help take the Vols to the next level,” said Sampson.
Though details of the co-ownership model have yet to be fully disclosed, insiders suggest Sampson will play an active role in shaping the program’s athlete development initiatives, alumni engagement, and NIL strategies. His return also comes at a time when Tennessee football is experiencing a resurgence, making his involvement all the more impactful.
With his return as co-owner, Sampson becomes one of the first former collegiate athletes in the NCAA to hold such a title, paving the way for a new era of athlete influence in college sports programs.
Vol Nation, long known for its fierce loyalty and passionate support, now has even more reason to rally behind the orange and white — as one of its greatest returns to help lead them into the future.