Mike Keith is returning to the University of Tennessee as the Voice of the Vols, Tennessee vice chancellor and director of athletics Danny White announced on Thursday.
Keith replaces Bob Kesling who announced he will retire in April.
“When we discussed potential candidates, one name topped our list without question: bringing Mike and his family back to Rocky Top,” White said. “He is a true icon in the broadcasting industry, and we are excited to harness Mike’s exceptional skill set to further elevate both the Vol Network and Tennessee Athletics in bold, innovative ways.”
Keith completed his 27th season with the Tennessee Titans in 2024, including the last 26 years as the Voice of the Titans.
Keith will be Tennessee’s lead play-by-play announcer for football and men’s basketball games. Tennessee announced he will also be involved in various new programming initiatives that will be unveiled later in 2025.
“While it is very hard to say goodbye to the Tennessee Titans, it is not hard to say “yes” to a return to the University of Tennessee and the Vol Network,” Keith said. “Alicia Longworth laid out a very exciting plan for how I can assist the talented VFL Films content team. Steve Early has continued to make me feel a part of the Vol Network family since I left Knoxville in 1998—it was like I never left. Everyone associated in this process has been very professional, very impressive and very kind. This continued a theme from a series of experiences that I have had over the last five years when dealing with anyone—athletics, University and Campus leadership, staff, faculty, students, etc.—-from the University of Tennessee. Everyone is just top-notch, and I mean EVERYONE. I am excited to join this entire team in hopes that I can add a solid contribution. It is great to be a Tennessee Volunteer, especially in 2025!”
Keith served as the Voice of the Vols for baseball from 1992-98.
