Story perspectives

Tennessee Hires Derek Owings as Highest-Paid Strength Coach

1/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

On January 20, 2026, Tennessee coach Josh Heupel announced the hiring of Derek Owings, former Indiana strength coach, as director of football sports performance.
Owings helped Indiana Hoosiers win the College Football Playoff National Championship.
Tennessee will pay Owings $1.2 million annually, making him the highest-paid strength coach in college football.
Owings replaces Kurt Schmidt, who was not retained after five seasons.
Offseason workouts under Owings will begin January 21, 2026.

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Story summary

On January 20, 2026, Tennessee coach Josh Heupel announced the hiring of Derek Owings, former Indiana strength coach, as director of football sports performance.
Owings helped Indiana Hoosiers win the College Football Playoff National Championship.
Tennessee will pay Owings $1.2 million annually, making him the highest-paid strength coach in college football.
Owings replaces Kurt Schmidt, who was not retained after five seasons.
Offseason workouts under Owings will begin January 21, 2026.