What's Happening?
Tennessee football head coach Josh Heupel has decided not to retain Kurt Schmidt, the team's strength and conditioning coach. Schmidt's contract, which is set to expire on January 31, will not be renewed. This decision follows a disappointing 2025 season for the Tennessee Volunteers, during which they lost all five games against FBS teams with winning records. Schmidt has been a long-time collaborator with Heupel, having worked together at three different schools over the past nine years. Despite their history, the decision to part ways is seen as a move to revitalize the team's performance.
Why It's Important?
The decision to not retain Schmidt is part of a broader effort by Heupel to restructure his coaching staff following a challenging season. This move highlights
the pressures on college football programs to perform and the swift changes that can occur in coaching staff to meet expectations. For Tennessee, this change could signal a shift in their training and conditioning approach, potentially impacting player performance and team dynamics. It also reflects Heupel's commitment to making necessary adjustments to improve the team's competitiveness in the SEC.
What's Next?
As Tennessee prepares for the upcoming season, the team will need to find a new strength and conditioning coach who aligns with Heupel's vision for the program. The offseason workouts, beginning in mid-January, will be crucial for setting the tone for the next season. Additionally, Heupel's recent hiring of Jim Knowles as the new defensive coordinator indicates a continued focus on strengthening the team's overall strategy. The effectiveness of these changes will be closely watched by fans and analysts as the Volunteers aim to improve their record in the 2026 season.
