Josh Heupel discusses hiring De’Rail Sims as running backs coach

Josh Heupel discusses hiring De’Rail Sims as Tennessee’s running backs coach.

De’Rail Sims was hired as Tennessee’s running backs coach on Monday.

He comes to Tennessee after serving in the same capacity at Cincinnati in 2023.

“We are excited to welcome De’Rail, his wife Lauren and his daughters Amayah and Alivia into the Tennessee football family,” Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel said. “De’Rail is an exceptionally bright coach with a track record of developing outstanding running back rooms and building relationships with his players.

“Our run game has been vital to who we are as a program, and I expect him to make a seamless transition in helping us continue that success. De’Rail also has the experience and knowledge of our recruiting footprint surrounding Tennessee. We look forward to him making an impact in our recruiting efforts.”

Sims also served as running backs coach at Louisville (2021-22), East Carolina (2019-20), James Madison (2016-18), Western Carolina (2013-15), Carson-Newman (2012) and Pikeville (2011).

PHOTOS: Tennessee running backs through the years

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