Josh Heupel Talks About the Development of the RB Room for Tennessee Vols

The Tennessee Volunteers have built a reputation under head coach Josh Heupel for their explosive offensive attack, one that often dazzles with its fast tempo and deep shots downfield. But behind the flash, there’s a fundamental aspect of Tennessee’s success that doesn’t always get the spotlight: the evolution of the Volunteers’ running back room.

Heading into the 2025 season, Heupel is more encouraged than ever by what he’s seeing from his running backs — not just in terms of production, but in mentality, leadership, and versatility. As Tennessee continues to chase SEC dominance and a potential College Football Playoff berth, the RB room is becoming an increasingly critical component of the team’s identity.

A Culture of Selflessness and Brotherhood

Heupel has been particularly vocal about the unselfish nature of this year’s running back group. At a recent press conference, he emphasized how rare and valuable it is to have a room full of guys who are genuinely happy for each other’s success.

“They compete with each other, but they’re rooting for one another every rep,” Heupel said. “It’s a healthy competition. There’s no jealousy. These guys want the team to win more than they want their own numbers.”

That kind of chemistry doesn’t happen by accident. Running backs coach Jerry Mack has cultivated an atmosphere where accountability and support go hand in hand. Whether it’s during film study or walkthroughs, players challenge each other to be better while celebrating each other’s growth.

“You can feel it when you’re in that room,” Heupel added. “They challenge one another, but it’s always in a way that builds trust and connection. That translates to the field.”

Building a Balanced Attack

Heupel’s offensive philosophy is widely known for its vertical passing game and blistering tempo, but he’s adamant that the run game is just as foundational. In fact, it’s essential.

“People look at our passing numbers, but none of it works without the run game,” Heupel explained. “Our ability to stay balanced keeps defenses honest. If you can’t run the ball in this league, you’re not winning much.”

Tennessee averaged 194 rushing yards per game last season — a testament to the line’s development and the RB room’s execution. But Heupel believes this year’s group can be even better. He notes that the offensive line has matured, with improved technique and strength up front, allowing more flexibility in the run scheme.

The Vols’ playbook features inside and outside zone, gap schemes, and RPOs that require backs who are not only explosive, but smart. According to Heupel, this year’s group has taken a step forward in its football IQ.

“Situational awareness, ball security, blitz pickups — all of that has improved across the board,” he said.

Jaylen Wright: The Veteran Leader

No conversation about Tennessee’s backfield is complete without Jaylen Wright. The senior has been one of the most consistent producers during Heupel’s tenure and enters the 2025 season as a legitimate All-SEC candidate.

Heupel has praised Wright’s maturity and physical transformation, noting that he’s running with lower pad level and showing more resilience through contact.

“Jaylen has really come into his own,” Heupel said. “His vision, his patience — they’ve improved dramatically. He understands how to set up blocks and when to explode. He’s become a complete back.”

Wright has also become more vocal in practice, pulling younger backs aside after plays, reinforcing coaching points, and demonstrating a calm, steady approach to preparation.

Dylan Sampson: Explosive, Versatile, and Hungry

Sophomore Dylan Sampson is one of the most exciting weapons on Tennessee’s roster. Known for his burst and big-play ability, Sampson averaged 6.2 yards per carry last season and scored multiple touchdowns of 40+ yards. But this offseason, he’s worked hard to round out his game.

“He’s added good weight, gotten stronger, and hasn’t lost a step,” Heupel said. “But more importantly, he’s taking mental reps even when he’s not in. He sees the game differently now — he’s anticipating, diagnosing.”

Heupel says Sampson has improved his pass protection and route running, making him more dangerous as a third-down back and opening opportunities for mismatches against linebackers in coverage.

“Dylan’s football IQ is starting to catch up to his athleticism, and that’s a scary thing for opponents,” Heupel added.

Cam Seldon and the Emergence of Depth

Another player to watch is redshirt freshman Cam Seldon, who’s turning heads in spring ball. Heupel has spoken about Seldon’s speed and raw athleticism, but also praised the strides he’s made in becoming more disciplined and detail-oriented.

“He’s got tools you can’t teach,” Heupel said. “Now it’s about consistency — making the right read every time, taking care of the football, and trusting the process.”

Seldon brings an added element to Tennessee’s offense, as he can motion out wide, return kicks, and be used creatively in motion. That versatility fits perfectly into Heupel’s system, which thrives on mismatches and tempo.

Khalifa Keith: The Power Option

At 225 pounds, sophomore Khalifa Keith gives the Vols a powerful change-of-pace option. He’s shown flashes of being a reliable short-yardage and goal-line back, but Heupel says Keith is far more than just a bruiser.

“He’s gotten quicker, leaner, and more confident,” Heupel said. “He knows the offense now — protections, reads, angles. He’s not just lowering his shoulder; he’s making people miss.”

Keith’s development has allowed the Vols to diversify their personnel packages. In situations where Tennessee wants to slow things down or control the clock, Keith can be a workhorse.

Freshmen On the Rise

The Vols brought in two talented freshmen this cycle: speedster Jamarion Wilcox and all-purpose back Peyton Lewis. While Heupel hasn’t committed to either seeing immediate action, he’s excited by their potential.

“These guys have great attitudes, and they’re soaking everything up,” Heupel said. “They ask questions, stay after practice, and you can see their desire to learn.”

Wilcox, in particular, is earning early praise for his acceleration and elusiveness, while Lewis is showing promise as a future contributor both in the run game and as a pass-catcher.

The Importance of Pass Protection and Fundamentals

Another key area where the RB room has made strides is in pass protection. Heupel believes it’s often the most overlooked skill for a back — but one of the most important.

“If you can’t protect the quarterback, you can’t play in this offense,” he said. “And our guys have really embraced that.”

Heupel noted how Jaylen Wright has become a consistent protector in blitz pickup, while Sampson and Keith have shown improved technique and communication. The group’s dedication in the film room is translating into better execution on Saturdays.

Looking Ahead: A Dangerous, Deep Unit

With a mix of veterans, explosive playmakers, and rising young talent, Heupel believes the 2025 running back room is the deepest and most complete he’s had since arriving in Knoxville.

“We’ve got guys who can hit a home run, guys who can run between the tackles, guys who can protect the quarterback,” he said. “That allows us to be unpredictable. It allows us to play fast.”

The versatility of the group gives Tennessee the ability to dictate tempo, wear down defenses, and attack in multiple ways. Whether it’s a two-minute drill, red zone package, or third-and-short, Heupel has options — and that keeps defenses guessing.

The development of Tennessee’s running back room under Josh Heupel is a testament to the program’s growth. What was once a question mark has become a strength — and a potential difference-maker in the SEC title race.

From Jaylen Wright’s leadership, to Dylan Sampson’s explosiveness, to the emergence of players like Cam Seldon and Khalifa Keith, Tennessee has built a stable of backs capable of powering its high-octane offense to new heights.

As Heupel put it: “When you’ve got a room full of guys who love football, love each other, and compete the right way — good things happen.”