Tennessee football: Ranking 15 options to replace Kodi Burns as Vols WR coach
Scouting Report. Former wide receivers coach. player. 840. Pick Analysis. Florida Gators. Billy Gonzales. 1
Years at most recent position: 4 (Not retained in 2022 by Billy Napier)
Related Story. Ranking offseason coaching changes by impact on Vols. light
When it comes to merit alone, nobody is a better option to coach Tennessee football’s wide receivers than Billy Gonzales. A holdover from Dan Mullen’s staff, Gonzales is an elite recruiter and was not retained by Billy Napier, a controversial decision to many.
Given the fact that he has worked with Mullen since 2013, Gonzales has a deep understanding of complex offenses like what Josh Heupel runs. He also brings in direct recruiting ties to the states of Florida and Mississippi, huge advantages for Rocky Top. However, his SEC experience isn’t the only bonus he brings to the program.
Gonzales also worked with Urban Meyer in the mid-2000s at Florida and with the Bowling Green Falcons and Utah Utes, so he has Ohio ties. In 2010 and 2011, he worked with Les Miles and the LSU Tigers, developing Louisiana ties. He also worked with Tim Beckman and the Illinois Fighting Illini in 2012, so he has even deeper Big Ten ties and experience in a wide range of offenses.
Next. Vols' 25 best single-game performances in history. dark
There’s a reason Jayden Gibson decommitted from Florida after Gonzales was not maintained. He is a superb recruiter who could bring in a ton of talent at the receiver position to Tennessee football. Combine that with his experience, and he is an obvious choice.