Tennessee has announced the departure of defensive coordinator Tim Banks after five seasons, with reports indicating the move is due to significant regression in the team's defensive performance during the 2025 season. Banks, who was a finalist for the Broyles Award in 2023 and had overseen a historically strong defense in recent years, is expected to receive a buyout estimated around $4.5 million due to his contract. Under Banks, Tennessee's defense ranked highly nationally in 2024, with the team allowing just 16.1 points per game—the lowest since 1998—and finishing sixth in total defense. However, injuries to key players, the loss of top NFL prospects, and overall roster attrition contributed to a decline in 2025, with the team falling to 92nd nationally in scoring defense and allowing over 28 points per game. The defense struggled particularly in SEC play, allowing 33.6 points per game and suffering notable blowout losses, including a season-ending defeat to Vanderbilt where they allowed 45 points and 582 yards. Despite a historically successful run of defense under Banks, recent injuries and roster turnover led to the downturn, prompting Tennessee to seek new leadership for its defensive unit.