The University of Tennessee has unveiled a new “Smokey Grey” uniform set from its adidas partnership, and this one comes with a built-in nod to the program’s past. The look is meant to honor General Robert Neyland on the 100th anniversary of his debut season with the Vols in 1926.
According to the university, the design pulls from different stretches of Neyland’s coaching era and from Tennessee uniforms used during his time in Knoxville from 1926 through 1952. UT said the idea was to blend “key features from multiple eras,” while reflecting Neyland’s lasting influence through his military background and his impact on the field.
There are a few specific details baked into the uniform. The helmet is designed to resemble the leather helmets Tennessee wore from the start of the program through 1949, and the stitching is modeled after the 1938 national championship helmet. The shoulder also includes a patch featuring an iconic image of Neyland along with his signature, and UT said more design details are available on its website.
“Smokey Grey” merchandise from adidas is scheduled to go on sale September 1 through retailers and the Tennessee Athletics website. The team is set to wear the uniforms for the first time on October 3.
The reveal comes about a month after Tennessee introduced its orange, white, Summitt Blue and Dark Mode uniforms. It also arrives after UT signed a 10-year deal making adidas its official apparel provider, following the end of the university’s 12-year run with Nike. Adidas has also worked with several student-athletes on Name, Image and Likeness opportunities.
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