With the Fourth of July on the horizon, Tennessee Football has made a bold statement by unveiling its 2025 Smokey Grey uniforms. The military-inspired design, released just ahead of Independence Day, honors Tennessee’s deep-rooted military tradition and pays tribute to legendary frontiersman David “Davy” Crockett.
The announcement comes at a time when college football teams are increasingly using uniforms to connect with fans and celebrate their unique identities. The new look, blending history with modern style, has sparked excitement and debate among supporters, setting the stage for a memorable season debut.
Fans React to Tennessee’s Military-Inspired Smokey Grey Uniforms
On July 3, 2025, Tennessee Football officially revealed the refreshed uniforms as part of its “Volunteer Spirit” series. The team released a cinematic video highlighting the design process and its historical inspirations, which quickly went viral among fans.
The new uniforms are the result of a collaboration between Nike, the Tennessee Military Department, the 134th Air Refueling Wing, and the Tennessee National Guard. This partnership underscores the program’s commitment to honoring those who serve, both past and present.
The uniforms feature a two-tone grey color scheme, reminiscent of steel forged from military artillery. The helmet and sleeves prominently display the “Davy Stripe,” a nod to the distinctive pattern Crockett wore during his final stand at the Battle of the Alamo in 1836. Additional details include stencil-style numbers inspired by military fonts and the return of the Star Vols logo, which further ties the design to Tennessee’s heritage.
The original Volunteer. pic.twitter.com/C7a9HYxDpB9
— Tennessee Football (@Vol_Football) July 3, 2025
In a video released on X, Tennessee Athletics emphasized the state’s long-standing military tradition, saying, “For centuries, Tennesseans have stepped to the front lines. They’ve answered the call to preserve and defend freedom, a call that demands courage and a willingness to give their all. It’s a fierce determination that drives us, a choice to serve purpose over self and the boldness to lead.”
A culture, a history, an identity.
The Volunteer Spirit uniform celebrates the state that has long stood at the heart of America’s military tradition. pic.twitter.com/u4ZU0DJvN1
— Tennessee Athletics (@Vol_Sports) July 3, 2025
Fan reaction to the new uniforms has been mixed. Some supporters expressed nostalgia for previous designs, with one fan commenting, “Yea… Tennessee should’ve stuck with the 2022 version they wore on the road at LSU. Pics I took in Baton Rouge,” and another noted, “Would’ve been better if the pants were the same shade of gray.”
Yea….Tennessee should’ve stuck with the 2022 version they wore on the road at LSU. Pics I took in Baton Rouge pic.twitter.com/Dlgz6oZJ4z
— Trey Wallace (@TreyWallace_) July 3, 2025
Others, however, praised the new look. One user wrote, “These are incredible, might be the best Smokey Grey helmet y’all have come up with.” Another added, “Alright, these are sweet,” while a third chimed in, “Love the helmets!”
“The Volunteer Spirit” marks the fourth version of Tennessee’s Smokey Grey uniform series. The Vols are set to debut the uniforms on November 15, 2025, against New Mexico State during their annual Salute to Service game. This event, which honors military personnel and veterans, has become a highlight of the season for fans and players alike.
Looking ahead, the uniforms are expected to be a focal point for the program throughout the 2025 season. The design’s blend of tradition and innovation reflects Tennessee’s ongoing efforts to connect with its fan base and pay tribute to the state’s rich history. As the team prepares for its debut, the conversation around the new look is likely to continue, both online and in the stands.