Shocking news: Congratulations Kelsey Pope Is Promoted As The…

Knoxville, TN – The Tennessee Volunteers have announced the promotion of Kelsey Pope to wide receivers coach, effective immediately. Pope, who has been with the program since 2021, will take over the reins from former wide receivers coach, Kodi Burns.

“We’re thrilled to promote Kelsey to wide receivers coach,” said Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel. “He’s been an invaluable member of our staff, and his relationships with our players are second to none. Kelsey is a talented coach who will bring a lot of energy and enthusiasm to our wide receiver room.”

Pope, a former college wide receiver himself, has quickly risen through the coaching ranks. He joined the Tennessee staff in 2021 as an offensive quality control coach and has since worked closely with the wide receivers, helping to develop the likes of Cedric Tillman and Jalin Hyatt.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to lead our wide receiver room,” said Pope. “I’ve learned so much from Coach Heupel and the rest of the staff, and I’m excited to put my own spin on things. We’ve got a talented group of receivers, and I’m looking forward to helping them reach their full potential.”

Pope’s promotion is a testament to the Vols’ commitment to developing coaches from within. Heupel has consistently praised Pope’s work ethic and attention to detail, and the former quality control coach has earned the respect of the players and staff alike.

“Kelsey is a coach who truly cares about his players,” said Tennessee quarterback Joe Milton III. “He’s always pushing us to be our best, and he’s got a great understanding of the game. I’m excited to see what he brings to the table as our new wide receivers coach.”

With Pope at the helm, the Vols’ wide receiver corps is expected to take a significant step forward in 2025. Tennessee returns a talented group of receivers, including Ramel Keyton, Squirrel White, and Walker Merrill, and Pope will be tasked with helping them develop into one of the top receiving units in the SEC.

“Kelsey is the perfect guy for the job,” said Heupel. “He’s got a great understanding of our offense, and he’s got the ability to connect with our players. We’re excited to see what the future holds for our wide receiver room under his leadership.”