Tennessee running back Dylan Sampson has officially declared for the 2024 NFL Draft, marking the end of his standout career with the Volunteers. Sampson announced his decision on social media, thanking his coaches, teammates, and the Tennessee fanbase for their unwavering support throughout his time in Knoxville.
Sampson’s decision comes as no surprise to those who have followed his career. The junior tailback has been a dynamic force in Tennessee’s offense, showcasing a combination of speed, vision, and versatility that has made him one of the most electrifying players in the SEC. As he now prepares to take his talents to the next level, Sampson leaves behind a legacy of big plays and memorable moments in the orange and white.
Dylan Sampson arrived at Tennessee as a three-star recruit from Dutchtown High School in Louisiana. While he didn’t enter college as one of the most highly touted players in his class, it didn’t take long for him to make his presence felt. Sampson’s work ethic, speed, and ability to break tackles earned him playing time early in his career, and by his sophomore season, he had established himself as a key contributor in Josh Heupel’s high-octane offense.
In 2023, Sampson took his game to another level, becoming Tennessee’s most reliable playmaker out of the backfield. He finished the season with over 1,100 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, adding another 300 receiving yards and two scores as a pass-catcher. His knack for turning small openings into explosive plays made him a nightmare for opposing defenses and a fan favorite at Neyland Stadium.
Sampson’s ability to perform in clutch moments was perhaps his most defining trait. Whether it was breaking off a game-changing run or making a key third-down conversion, he consistently delivered when the Vols needed him most.
The NFL values versatility in running backs, and Sampson’s skill set makes him an ideal candidate for the modern game. At 5’11” and 205 pounds, he possesses the size to handle a significant workload while maintaining the speed and agility to excel in space. His ability to contribute as a receiver out of the backfield will also make him a valuable asset for NFL teams looking to maximize their offensive options.
Another factor working in Sampson’s favor is his durability. Despite being a focal point of Tennessee’s offense, he managed to stay healthy throughout his college career, showcasing the toughness and resilience that NFL teams covet.
Draft analysts project Sampson as a mid-to-late-round pick, but his stock could rise with a strong showing at the NFL Combine. His ability to showcase his athleticism in drills like the 40-yard dash, shuttle run, and vertical jump will be crucial in demonstrating his potential to NFL scouts.
While Sampson’s departure leaves a significant void in Tennessee’s backfield, the Vols have several young players ready to step up. Sophomore Jaylen Wright and freshman Kaleb Webb are expected to take on larger roles next season, and Tennessee’s coaching staff has already begun targeting top running back prospects in recruiting to ensure the position remains a strength.
Head coach Josh Heupel praised Sampson in a statement, calling him “a special player and an even better person.” Heupel added, “Dylan has been a tremendous leader for our team, and while we’ll miss him, we’re excited to see him chase his dreams at the next level. He’ll always be a part of the Tennessee family.”
Dylan Sampson’s career at Tennessee will be remembered for his electrifying style of play and his contributions to the Vols’ resurgence under Heupel. His performances in key SEC matchups, as well as his dedication to the program, have cemented his status as one of the most impactful players of the Heupel era.
As he transitions to the NFL, Sampson carries with him the hopes and pride of Vol Nation. Fans will be watching closely to see where he lands in the draft and cheering him on as he begins the next chapter of his football journey.
For Tennessee, the challenge now is replacing a player of Sampson’s caliber. But for Dylan Sampson, the future is bright as he takes his talents to the professional stage.