Vols Assistant Coach Among Names for Final On-Field Spot at Alabama

Tennessee fans across the globe are still waiting to find out who the next head coach of their beloved University is going to be, but so are players and currently contracted coaches in Knoxville. That includes Tennessee legend Jay Graham, who returned to Knoxville last year to work under Jeremy Pruitt.

While things remain in limbo in Knoxville, Graham's name is being mentioned for the final spot on Nick Saban's staff.

Saban was tasked with replacing almost all of his assistant coaches, and he has rolled one big name after another into Tuscaloosa since. Graham is being eyed in

Graham is being looked at in the special team's coordinator role, but VR2 on SI has been told he could share other duties along the way.

John Brice of FootballScoop was the first to officially report Graham as an option to Tuscaloosa, and VR2 on SI has since learned that Graham has spent time with Nick Saban and Bill O'Brien over the past week.

Brice reported: "Tennessee, per sources, is motivated in its attempts to retain Graham, who is under contract at his alma mater for one more year. But it remains unclear if the Vols — amid an ongoing head coaching search with new athletics director Danny White — can hang onto the beloved former star player and fan favorite."

Graham was arguably Tennessee's most valuable position coach in 2020, and he helped bring in a talented group in the 2021 recruiting class, including top-ranked junior college back Tiyon Evans.

While Graham is in wait and see mode, VR2 on SI has been told that Alabama is optimistic of closing a deal with him soon, but Tennessee could also announce a head coach in the coming days, which could allow Graham the opportunity to stay in Knoxville.