A New Era for the Vol Network: Tennessee Unveils Revamped Football Broadcast Team for 2025 Season

In the heart of East Tennessee, fall Saturdays are sacred. Neyland Stadium becomes a sea of orange, Rocky Top echoes through the hills, and the Vol Network brings the action to fans across the nation. Now, as Tennessee football looks to capitalize on recent recruiting wins and on-field success, the Vol Network is ushering in a new era of its own — with a completely revamped broadcast team set to debut for the 2025 season.

After years of familiar voices and sideline staples, the Vol Network announced sweeping changes to its football broadcast crew on Monday morning. It marks the most significant shift in the network’s presentation of Tennessee football since the late 1990s, with a clear focus on blending tradition with innovation.

Let’s take a deep dive into the new team, the reasoning behind the changes, and what fans can expect from the broadcasts this fall.

The New Lineup: Fresh Voices, Familiar Passion

At the center of the transformation is the hire of Chris Fowler, who will serve as the new play-by-play voice of Tennessee Volunteers football. Yes, that Chris Fowler — the ESPN veteran known for his work on College GameDay and ABC’s Saturday Night Football. Fowler, a self-described college football purist with a soft spot for SEC pageantry, steps into the role with more than three decades of national broadcasting experience.

“It’s a thrill to be part of something as historic and passionate as Tennessee football,” Fowler said in the official release. “The Vol Network is iconic in college sports. To be trusted with this role — to help tell the story of each Saturday and bring fans closer to the team they love — is a true honor.”

Joining Fowler in the booth is none other than former Tennessee quarterback Josh Dobbs, who transitions into full-time broadcasting following a stint in the NFL and his growing popularity as a football analyst. Dobbs, known for his intelligence, charisma, and deep ties to the university, brings both football IQ and firsthand knowledge of the program’s culture.

On the sidelines, the Vol Network is turning to Jada Malone, a rising media star and Tennessee alum who’s earned a reputation for sharp analysis and dynamic interviews. Malone has previously worked with SEC Network and was part of ESPN’s alternate broadcast team during the College Football Playoff. She brings energy, insight, and a modern touch to the sideline role once held by longtime veteran Mike Keith.

The network has also created a new digital analyst position for Inky Johnson, the former Vol defensive back turned motivational speaker. Johnson will contribute commentary and exclusive content across the Vol Network’s radio, digital, and streaming platforms. His addition underscores Tennessee’s push to build a multi-platform, fan-first experience.

Why the Change Now?

So why the overhaul — and why now?

Tennessee athletic director Danny White cited two key factors: rising demand for elevated media experiences and the need to reflect the bold, forward-thinking identity of the football program.

“We’re not just competing on the field — we’re competing for attention in a saturated entertainment world,” White said. “The Vol Network is the front door for many of our fans. It has to reflect the excitement, excellence, and energy of Tennessee Football today.”

The departure of long-time play-by-play announcer Bob Kesling, who has held the role since 1999, also opened the door for a generational shift. Kesling announced his retirement last November after 26 seasons behind the mic. His decision prompted White and the network’s leadership to conduct a national search with a mandate to reimagine the broadcast from top to bottom.

“This was about more than just replacing Bob,” said Steve Early, executive producer of the Vol Network. “It was about taking a giant step forward — building a team that could connect with longtime fans, engage new audiences, and match the national profile of the program under Coach Heupel.”

What to Expect in the Booth

With Chris Fowler and Josh Dobbs at the helm, fans can expect a high-level, nationally polished broadcast every week. Fowler’s voice is already synonymous with primetime college football, and his ability to elevate the drama and storylines of each game should give the Vol Network a new sense of prestige.

Dobbs, meanwhile, brings modern credibility and insider analysis that few others could provide. As a former Heisman candidate and rocket scientist — literally — Dobbs has a way of explaining the game that’s both enlightening and accessible.

“The football IQ Dobbs brings is off the charts,” said Coach Josh Heupel. “But more than that, he’s a Vol. He knows what it means to wear the Power T. He’s lived it. He’s part of our story.”

Sideline Spark and Digital Expansion

Jada Malone’s sideline reporting will also be getting a significant upgrade in terms of access and interactivity. The Vol Network plans to experiment with real-time social media integration, including in-game fan questions, sideline reactions, and digital-only interviews for YouTube and the Tennessee app.

Malone is expected to anchor the new “Vol Network Access” digital show, which will premiere every Friday night during the season and offer behind-the-scenes footage, exclusive interviews with players and coaches, and in-depth previews.

“The line between radio, TV, and digital is gone,” Malone said. “We’re meeting fans where they are — whether that’s their car, their couch, or their phone.”

The network’s investment in Inky Johnson’s digital role also reflects a desire to lean into authentic storytelling. Johnson’s weekly video essays — titled “Vol Heartbeat” — will focus on character, leadership, and the deeper meaning behind Tennessee’s pursuit of greatness.

Fan Reaction: Nostalgia Meets Optimism

As expected, the response from Vol Nation has been mixed — with many fans expressing both gratitude for Kesling’s tenure and excitement about the new era.

“Bob Kesling was the voice of my childhood,” said longtime season ticket holder Kyle Prater. “But I also love the idea of bringing in Chris Fowler and Dobbs. That’s big-time.”

Some fans have voiced skepticism about bringing in national talent like Fowler for a traditionally homegrown broadcast. Others have pointed out that Dobbs, while beloved, is still untested in the booth. But most agree that the new lineup represents a bold and promising move.

“If we’re going to be one of the top programs in the country,” said UT alumna Sarah McLain, “our broadcast should be just as elite.”

A Tribute to Bob Kesling

No conversation about the future is complete without acknowledging the past. Bob Kesling’s legacy with the Vol Network spans more than two decades, 14 bowl games, and countless memorable calls.

From the thrilling 2001 Florida upset to the emotional tributes following Pat Summitt’s passing, Kesling was often the steady voice guiding fans through the highs and lows of Tennessee athletics.

“It’s been the privilege of a lifetime,” Kesling said in his farewell message. “The fans, the players, the moments — they’ll stay with me forever. Now it’s time to pass the mic and cheer just like everyone else.”

Kesling will be honored during the 2025 home opener against Syracuse, where the Vol Network will formally recognize his contributions with an on-field tribute and permanent feature in the Neyland Stadium press box.

A Broadcast Built for the Future

As Tennessee Football eyes a potential College Football Playoff run in 2025, the Vol Network is betting big on a broadcast that reflects the ambition of the program.

Chris Fowler gives it national polish. Josh Dobbs brings credibility and connection. Jada Malone adds sideline depth and digital reach. Inky Johnson offers soul and storytelling. Together, they form a team designed not just to call games — but to elevate the entire Tennessee Football experience.

“We want every game to feel like an event,” Fowler said. “We want fans to feel like they’re part of something special. Because they are.”

And as the countdown to kickoff begins, one thing is clear: the Vol Network isn’t just changing its voice — it’s raising its volume.