Tennessee Vols Running Back Dylan Sampson Declares for 2025 NFL Draft
Tennessee Volunteers running back Dylan Sampson has announced that he will forgo his final season of eligibility and declare for the 2025 NFL Draft. Sampson, a standout in Tennessee’s backfield, made the decision public on social media, thanking his coaches, teammates, and fans for their support throughout his collegiate career.
Sampson, who played a key role in the Vols’ offensive scheme over the past three seasons, has been one of the most dynamic and explosive players on the team. With his decision, he will leave Knoxville following a breakout season where he accumulated over 1,000 yards from scrimmage and scored 12 touchdowns.
During his time with Tennessee, Sampson quickly became known for his quickness, vision, and ability to make defenders miss in the open field. His versatility also allowed him to contribute both as a rusher and a receiving option out of the backfield. His combination of speed and agility made him a nightmare for opposing defenses, earning him recognition as one of the top running backs in the SEC.
In his final season, Sampson rushed for 850 yards on just 160 carries, averaging 5.3 yards per carry, and was a key contributor to Tennessee’s high-powered offense. He also caught 25 passes for 276 yards and 4 touchdowns, showcasing his skill set as a dual-threat weapon.
While Sampson’s departure leaves a void in Tennessee’s running back room, head coach Josh Heupel expressed confidence in the program’s ability to continue developing talent. “Dylan has been a tremendous player for us, and we wish him the best as he pursues his dream of playing at the next level,” Heupel said in a statement.
As Sampson prepares for the NFL Draft, scouts will be keeping a close eye on his performance in the coming months, with many anticipating him to be a top prospect in a competitive running back class.
