University of Tennessee head football coach Butch Jones.KNOXVILLE — New Tennessee coach Butch Jones is looking for a running backs coach less than two weeks before his first spring practice with the Volunteers.
Running backs coach and former UT tailback Jay Graham accepted an offer to join Florida State’s staff on Monday. Jones confirmed the initial report from Warchant.com, the Seminoles’ Rivals affiliate, on Twitter.
“Jay Graham has informed us of his decision to accept a position at another institution,” Jones posted. “The process of adding a new coach to our staff is under way, and we will hire the best person possible as we continue to build our program.”
One of the most productive and memorable backs at Tennessee during his career in the 1990s, Graham returned to his alma mater when he joined Derek Dooley’s staff in December 2011 following three seasons at South Carolina. When Dooley was dismissed after last season, Graham was the only assistant Jones retained. On multiple occasions, Jones has said he “rehired” Graham as opposed to retaining him.
After making $225,000 in 2012, Graham’s salary increased to $260,000 for his first season under Jones, but he still made less than all but one coach on Tennessee’s new staff. It’s likely Graham’s new position will include a higher salary and perhaps more titles.