VOLS WELCOME BACK ERIC BERRY AS DEFENSIVE BACKS COACH – TENNESSEE LEGEND RETURNS TO ROCKY TOP WITH ANNUAL DEAL OF…..SEE MORE…..
In a move that has electrified fans and injected new energy into the Tennessee Volunteers football program, legendary safety Eric Berry is returning to Knoxville—this time as the team’s new Defensive Backs Coach. The former All-American and fan favorite has signed a $1.8 million annual contract, marking one of the most high-profile staff additions in recent program history.
The announcement was made Tuesday by head coach Josh Heupel, who praised Berry’s leadership, deep knowledge of the game, and lifelong connection to the program.
“Eric Berry is Tennessee,” Heupel said. “He played with passion, led with integrity, and represented this university at the highest level. Now, he’s bringing all of that experience and energy back to our players.”
Berry, a native of Fairburn, Georgia, played for the Vols from 2007 to 2009 and was one of the most dynamic and respected players in college football during his time. Known for his ball-hawking skills, explosive athleticism, and football IQ, Berry was a two-time Unanimous All-American, the 2008 Jim Thorpe Award winner, and widely regarded as one of the greatest safeties in SEC history.
He finished his Tennessee career with 14 interceptions, over 240 tackles, and countless game-changing moments that earned him legendary status among the Vol faithful.
“To walk back into Neyland Stadium as a coach—it gives me chills,” Berry said during his press conference. “This place gave me everything. The least I can do now is give everything I’ve got back to it.”
Berry’s NFL career was equally impressive. Drafted fifth overall by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2010, he became a five-time Pro Bowler, three-time First-Team All-Pro, and one of the league’s most feared defenders. His inspiring return from a battle with Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2015 won him the NFL Comeback Player of the Year award and the admiration of fans worldwide.
Now retired from playing, Berry says coaching was always part of the long game—and Tennessee was always the dream.
“This isn’t just a job. It’s a mission,” he said. “I want to mentor these young men on the field, in the classroom, and in life. That’s what Tennessee did for me. Now it’s my turn.”
As Defensive Backs Coach, Berry will oversee the development of Tennessee’s cornerbacks and safeties, while also playing a key role in recruiting elite secondary talent to Rocky Top. His name recognition, NFL pedigree, and personal story are expected to make a significant impact on both current players and future prospects.
“I can’t believe Eric Berry’s going to be coaching us,” said junior safety Andre Turrentine. “He’s someone we all grew up watching. Learning from him—it’s a dream come true.”
Berry’s $1.8 million salary reflects not only his stature in the sport, but also Tennessee’s ongoing investment in assembling a championship-caliber staff. The deal includes performance incentives tied to defensive rankings, turnover margin, and postseason success.
Fans responded with overwhelming enthusiasm, lighting up social media with throwback clips of Berry’s bone-jarring hits and acrobatic interceptions. Hashtags like #BerryBack and #VFLReturns trended throughout the day.
“Eric Berry back in orange? That’s how you build a program with pride,” one longtime Vols fan tweeted. “He’s not just a great player—he’s a symbol of what Tennessee football is all about.”
Berry’s return comes at a critical moment for the Volunteers, who are aiming to solidify their defensive identity after major strides on offense under Heupel. With Berry on board, Tennessee hopes to rekindle the swagger and intensity that defined the program during his playing years.
“Eric was a tone-setter, and he’s going to bring that same fire to this coaching staff,” said former teammate and fellow VFL Jerod Mayo. “He’s the real deal.”
As the Vols gear up for another run in the loaded SEC, Berry’s presence on the sidelines brings both inspiration and credibility. For fans, players, and alumni alike, his homecoming represents a full-circle moment years in the making.
“I’m here to help Tennessee win—period,” Berry said. “Let’s get back to what we know this place can be.”
