Tennessee’s running backs coach Jerry Mack might be on his way to the National Football League.
According to recent reports, Tennessee may potentially lose one of its offensive assistants to the NFL. Jerry Mack, who has served as the running backs coach for Tennessee since Josh Heupel’s arrival in 2021, has been in discussions with the Jacksonville Jaguars. According to information from 247Sports’ Matt Zenitz, Mack is being considered to fill a vacant position on the Jaguars’ staff.
Mack had conversations with the Dallas Cowboys last season regarding a coaching position. Once again, during this cycle, he has garnered interest and could transition to the professional ranks. Heupel recruited Mack from his role as head coach at North Carolina Central in 2021. Prior to that, Mack held the position of offensive coordinator at Rice. This shift towards NFL opportunities among college coaches has been noticeable throughout the offseason, attributed to the demanding recruiting schedule and the complexities of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) and the transfer portal.
Mack has played a significant role in the development of players such as Jaylen Wright, Jabari Small, and currently Dylan Sampson. Additionally, he has been influential in recruiting, securing commitments from highly-rated prospects like Cam Seldon and Peyton Lewis.
Tennessee notably ranked 9th in rushing yards per game during the 2023 season, with Wright surpassing 1,000 yards and emerging as a potential mid-round draft pick for the 2024 NFL Draft.
While staff turnover hasn’t been common under Heupel’s leadership in Knoxville, with only two previous replacements – Kodi Burns as receivers coach and Alex Golesh as offensive coordinator, both promoted from within – it remains to be seen how this situation will unfold over the coming days.
