Fulmer Won't Return to Vols in '09
 

The face of Tennessee football will be changing. Phillip Fulmer, who has spent more than three decades with the Volunteers as a player, assistant and head coach, won't return next season, Chris Low reports. The Vols are 3-6.

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=3679810

Re: Fulmer Won't Return to Vols in '09
 

Can't say I am shocked. I am a BIG Vol fan and I think it is time to move on. Though the question is who is going to come and take over now?

Re: Fulmer Won't Return to Vols in '09
 

It's going to cost them 9.5 million dollars just to buy him and his coaching staff out. When you factor in the kind of money they're going to have to put out there to attract the kind of coach they are going to want, it becomes obvious that they are desperate to go in a different direction. I'm hearing that they want a "name" so they can immediately better their recruiting. I've even heard Mike Leach already.

Re: Fulmer Won't Return to Vols in '09
 

My sister works for the Knoxville PD which is located right next to Neyland stadium. Rumor on the street there is saying they paid him 4.5 million. I would take that to quit my job!!

Re: Fulmer Won't Return to Vols in '09
 

I heard it actually reported that he has a $6 million buyout, and that the combined buyout of his coaching staff is $3.5 million if they don't all find other jobs.

Re: Fulmer Won't Return to Vols in '09
 

A condition of his contract extention lastyear was a resturcture of his buy out. After the Vols were burned having immediate payout on the buyout of former basketball Coach Buzz Peterson they learned a lesson. I know that they changed it in Coach Fulmers case too. I think that at the end of last season the AD and whomever drew up a plan to get Fulmer out but compensate him for his time. His contract was over last year and people wanted him out. They extended it and gave an option for another year or so, but probably had a minimun requirement for wins and such. JMHO

Re: Fulmer Won't Return to Vols in '09
 

I heard about Mike Leach too. Other names like Steve Spurrior and Holtz, not Lou Holtz. Will see what happens

Re: Fulmer Won't Return to Vols in '09
 

not a big surprise, lol

Re: Fulmer Won't Return to Vols in '09
 

My sister and I talked about Steve Spurrior last week. I told her that I have been a UT fan since I was a young teenager. I love my Vols and root for them even when they have their losing streaks. BUT if Steve Spurrior comes on board, I will probably change my colors.

Re: Fulmer Won't Return to Vols in '09
 

Yeah, but when he gets in there and out-recruits everybody and starts to win the Conference and National titles...you'll be back :)