This offseason, Tennessee football made a strategic move by not only retaining wide receivers coach Kelsey Pope but also elevating his role to include passing game coordinator duties. So, what does this new title really entail? During spring practices, Pope shared insights into his expanded responsibilities.
"It's a cool title, but I’m still doing the same things," Pope remarked. His focus remains on maximizing the potential of the Vols' diverse skill sets.
With a roster boasting athletes over 6-2 and hitting speeds of 21 to 22 miles per hour, Pope is eager to innovate. "We’re getting more volume with high-caliber athletes.
My aim is to find new strategies that exploit defenses and capitalize on these unique talents."
Pope emphasized that while his title has changed, his dedication hasn't. "I’d like to think I’ve been operating with that mindset even before the title was official," he added. Coach Heupel's recognition simply formalized what Pope had already been doing.
This season, Pope returns with a formidable receiver lineup. Even with Chris Brazzell heading to the NFL draft, Mike Matthews and Braylon Staley remain key starters. Staley, who earned SEC Freshman of the Year honors last year, continues to impress.
The departure of Brazzell opens up a competitive spot, with sophomores Radarious Jackson and Travis Smith Jr., along with five-star freshman TK Keys, vying for the position. Pope appreciates the team’s camaraderie: "I’m blessed to be in that room because there’s no selfishness. It starts with Staley and Matthews, and their leadership positively influences everyone."
Keep an eye on Joakim Dodson and Ian Duarte as well, with Tyreek King set to join the group in the summer. With Pope at the helm, the Vols' passing game looks poised for an exciting season.