Tennessee has a new walk-on from the portal

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KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Vols fans have long used the Orange and White spring game as a preview of the season ahead. But this year, the headliner has four legs.

Neyland, a 2-year-old bluetick coonhound rescue, will make his public debut at the game. He's currently being fostered by a University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine employee.

The search for Smokey XII started in November when UT announced Smokey XI was retiring after two seasons because of the dog's shy personality, saying the decision was made for his "well-being and happiness." He lives with the Hudson family, which has raised generations of UT's living mascot.

Neyland was discovered through word of mouth within the East Tennessee bluetick coonhound rescue community. His original owners could no longer provide care, and someone stepped in to find him a permanent home. After UT's "Smokey search team" evaluated him, they saw his potential to become Smokey XII.

UT said his time with his foster family and the school's veterinary team has been "instrumental" in preparing him. He's already been to Tennessee basketball games as part of his acclimation to loud crowds and high-energy environments.

“Neyland, aka Smokey XII, might just be Vol Nation’s most heartwarming walk-on success story,” University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine Dean Paul Plummer said. “This beautiful bluetick coonhound has found his forever family on Rocky Top. With training support from devoted students and expert guidance from the nation’s best veterinarians, Smokey XII is ready to meet his new Volunteer family and bring excitement to fans everywhere he goes.”

A vet said the Orange and White game is the ideal opportunity to more fully evaluate Neyland's readiness ahead of the regular season.

UT confirmed it's collaborating with the Hudson family on Smokey XII's long-term care.

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