Tennessee Unveils New 'Volunteer State' Uniforms

© Tennessee Athletics

The University of Tennessee football team has one of the most recognizable uniforms in sports. Today, the Volunteers released images and information on the new "Volunteer State" uniforms for the upcoming football season.

'Smokey Grey' Series

This marks the second phase of the prestigious collaboration between Nike and the Tennessee Volunteers, two of the most iconic names in sports. The "Volunteer State" uniforms are the result of this powerful partnership, promising a blend of innovation and tradition.

Last season, the Volunteers wore the "Artful Dodger" uniforms to honor the legacy of the first-ever Black player to start at quarterback in the Southeastern Conference, Condredge Holloway. Holloway, who played from 1971-1974, was known as the "Artful Dodger."

"When we arrived on Rocky Top, one of our primary goals was to honor our storied tradition with a modern twist," said Tennessee Vice Chancellor/Director of Athletics Danny White. "This year’s 'Smokey Grey' uniform does just that; it pays homage to a Tennessee legend and the first African American quarterback in the SEC, Condredge Holloway, but is a modern look for our current student-athletes. I can’t wait to see our team run through the 'T' on Sept. 9 in the home opener in the 'Smokey Grey' uniform, on the 51st anniversary of Condredge’s first start as a Vol."

The Volunteer State Uniform

This new concept uniform is the brainchild of Tennessee's in-house creative agency, 151 Creative. The agency has worked closely with the Volunteer equipment staff and Nike to create the new alternate uniform.

For the first time in team history, "Tennessee" will be on the front of the jersey under the well-known "Power T." The tri-star logo appears on the shoulder and the top of the pants. Along with the tri-star, the Tennessee state flag's white stripe will add to the new pants' look.

The helmets will have the logo any college football fan would know: the orange "Power T" on the side of the helmet and mountain designs in shades of grey, a nod to the famous Great Smokey Mountains National Park. The orange center stripe accentuates the helmet, just like on the pants, and is paired with the Tennessee state flag's white stripe. A "Smokey Grey" face mask caps off the helmet for an unmistakable look, sure to have memorabilia collectors foaming at the mouth.

© Tennessee Athletics

Tennessee Fans Want the Gear

All fan bases love to sport their favorite team's gear and the Volunteers are no different. For all Tennessee fans you can find merchandise later this month at shop.utsports.com and local retailers. If you are in Tennessee, be on the lookout for "Volunteer State" billboards.