I AM BACK and READY for Rocky Top: Joshua Dobbs Announces Shocking Return to Tennessee Vols
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — In a move that has sent shockwaves through the college football world, former Tennessee quarterback and NFL journeyman Joshua Dobbs has made it official: he’s coming back to Rocky Top.
With the simple yet powerful message, “I AM BACK and READY for Rocky Top,” Dobbs ignited a wildfire of excitement among Volunteers fans nationwide. While the details of his return are still unfolding, sources close to the program confirm that Dobbs will rejoin the Tennessee football team in an official capacity — not as a player, but as a key contributor to the program’s future.
Dobbs, who led the Vols from 2013–2016 with his trademark grit, dual-threat explosiveness, and leadership, is expected to join the coaching staff or player development team, bringing his NFL experience and Tennessee pride full circle.
“I never stopped being a Vol,” Dobbs said in a video message posted online. “This place built me. And now, I’m ready to help build the next generation.”
During his time in Knoxville, Dobbs threw for over 7,000 yards, rushed for nearly 3,000 more, and became a fan-favorite not just for his play but for his off-field brilliance — graduating with an aerospace engineering degree while leading the team to back-to-back bowl victories.
With Tennessee aiming to return to SEC dominance, Dobbs’ return adds a powerful dose of experience, passion, and leadership to the program. Head coach Josh Heupel called the move “a full-circle moment that brings energy, insight, and pure Volunteer DNA into our locker room.”
One thing is clear: Joshua Dobbs is back, and Rocky Top is roaring louder than ever.
