The University of Tennessee’s special‑teams unit is set for a fresh look as the 2026 campaign approaches, with three distinct kickers vying for meaningful snaps.
A New Era of Special Teams
Redshirt senior Josh Turbyville returns after four years of service, bringing a deep reservoir of experience and a track record of booming kickoffs that have consistently landed inside the 20‑yard line.
Turbyville’s Proven Leg
During his tenure, Turbyville amassed 15,616 kickoff yards on 247 attempts, including 198 touchbacks and nine out‑of‑bounds kicks. In 2025 he logged a season‑best 5,294 yards, and he even converted a 33‑yard field goal against UConn on Nov. 4, 2023, showcasing his versatility beyond kickoff duties.
Cooper Ranvier’s Transfer
After completing his college career at Louisville, Cooper Ranvier joins the Vols for the upcoming season, bringing a polished résumé that includes 21‑of‑25 field‑goal success and 40‑of‑42 extra‑point accuracy. His longest made field goal stretched 51 yards, a distance that could prove decisive in tight contests.
Freshman Grady Dangerfield’s Potential
Redshirt freshman Grady Dangerfield made a modest but promising debut in 2025, recording 257 kickoff yards and three touchbacks across four attempts. Though his sample size is small, the coaching staff sees enough upside to keep him in the mix for future opportunities.
Coaching Perspective
Special‑teams coordinator Josh Heupel has emphasized competition throughout the offseason, noting that each kicker brings a unique skill set that can be leveraged in different game situations. The staff believes depth will allow for strategic rest and matchup‑specific selections.
Looking Ahead
Fans can expect to see the trio tested early in the schedule, with non‑conference road trips to Connecticut and New Mexico providing early gauges of performance. As the season unfolds, the Vols hope the competition will translate into reliable scoring and field‑position advantages that could prove pivotal in the SEC race.