As the Tennessee Volunteers prepare for the 2025 spring football practices, Head Coach Josh Heupel has announced three significant coaching staff changes aimed at strengthening the program and building on recent success.
Two of the changes come from within, as Heupel promoted trusted members of his current staff, while the third involves a seasoned NFL coach joining the team. These moves are seen as strategic efforts to maintain continuity while also injecting fresh insight into key areas of the game.
Levorn “Chop” Harbin has been promoted to Outside Linebackers Coach. Harbin has been with the Volunteers since 2021, serving most recently as a senior defensive analyst. He’s widely credited with helping develop Tennessee’s pass rush, contributing to the success of players like All-SEC edge rusher James Pearce Jr. His familiarity with the defensive system and the players positions him well to take on this elevated role.
Evan Crabtree has been promoted to Special Teams Coordinator after working closely with former coordinator Mike Ekeler as a special teams analyst. Crabtree has been an important part of Tennessee’s special teams success, which included leading the nation in punt return yards during the 2024 season. His promotion ensures that the unit continues to build on its recent momentum with a familiar and capable leader at the helm.
Joining the staff from outside the program is John Bonamego, who will serve as the Assistant Special Teams Coach. Bonamego brings with him an impressive 35 years of coaching experience, including time with six different NFL teams. His extensive knowledge and background in special teams are expected to bring a valuable perspective to Tennessee’s coaching staff and help raise the level of execution on that front.
Coach Heupel expressed excitement about the moves, stating, “Chop and Evan understand the culture and standard of excellence that we have built here over the past four years. Both have strong relationships with our players, and it will make for a seamless transition as we get ready for spring practice. Adding someone like John, with his experience, is a tremendous asset for our team.”
With spring practices set to begin on March 7, these changes come at a crucial time for the Vols. The team will enter spring workouts with a revamped coaching dynamic, aimed at sharpening both the defense and special teams units. The Volunteers are looking to build on their recent progress and push toward SEC contention in the 2025 season.
These coaching adjustments reflect Heupel’s continued focus on developing a cohesive, high-performing staff that can lead Tennessee back to national prominence. As the Volunteers take the field for spring practices, fans will be watching closely to see how these new coaching roles impact the team’s development and readiness for the fall.
