The Tennessee Vols have been one of the best teams in the country during the Josh Heupel era when it comes to handing the ball off. Jaylen Wright, Dylan Sampson, and DeSean Bishop have all excelled in the Tennessee offense.
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DeSean Bishop is undoubtedly the RB1 in 2026, but Josh Heupel will need to add a backup that can give the Vols 10 carries a game or so, and fill in if Bishop gets hurt. Backup running back Peyton Lewis is off to the Transfer Portal, and Star Thomas has declared for the NFL Draft, so a new running back is necessary. Tennessee also opted not to sign a 2026 running back recruit, further adding to the reason for needing a new tailback.
According to On3's Pete Nakos, Tennessee football is set to host Jacksonville State transfer running back Cam Cook, a visit that could have major implications for the Volunteers’ backfield in 2026. Cook led the nation in rushing with 1,659 yards. He also finished tied for fifth in rushing touchdowns last season.
Tennessee is set to host a visit for Jacksonville State RB transfer Cam Cook, per @PeteNakos. Cook led the nation in rushing yards and was tied for 5th in rushing TDs. He also added 30 catches for 286 yards. pic.twitter.com/axTSFMHwvu
— TorresOnTennessee (@TorresontheVols) January 2, 2026
Cam Cook and DeSean Bishop Would be the best duo in the nation
If Josh Heupel can pull this off, Tennessee would have the best running back room in the nation. This would also preserve Bishop, as he wouldn't have to carry the ball as much, thus taking far fewer hits.
The Cook and Bishop backfield could likely resemble Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery's rushing attack for the Detroit Lions. Tennessee would be able to swap one another out and not miss a beat, continuously wearing out defenses. The Vols have plenty to sell; they boast a high-octane offense that tailbacks thrive in.
Adding a highly talented running back might feel a bit like a luxury for Tennessee. With bigger needs on the defensive side and NIL resources to manage carefully, the Vols have to weigh their priorities. It’s not that they shouldn’t pursue a top-tier running back, but the opportunity cost could be high if it limits their ability to bring in elite defensive talent.
The SEC better watch out, if the Vols land Cook Tennessee could do some serious damage in 2026.