Report: Phillip Fulmer emerges as front runner for AD job at Tennessee

Almost ten years after being fired from his position as head football coach at Tennessee, Phillip Fulmer may just return to the Volunteers as the program's newest athletic director.

According to Chris Low of ESPN, citing sources, the Hall of Fame head coach has emerged as the leading candidate to land the vacant position at Tennessee left by Dave Hart, who announced his retirement in August. Hart remains under contract with the university until June, but is expected to step down before his contract expires.

ESPN.com contacted Fulmer in regards to the rumors Monday, and the former Volunteers bench boss neither confirmed nor denied the speculation.

"Since I was 18 years old UT's best interests have always been my interest," Fulmer said. "I want what is best for UT. Dr. (Beverley) Davenport (UT's newly named chancellor) has laid out a clear process, and we have to respect the time and her vision to complete that process."

Following his playing days with the Volunteers, spanning from 1968-71, Fulmer served as Tennessee's offensive line coach from 1980-88, and its offensive coordinator from 1989-92, before taking over as head coach. His head coaching tenure lasted 17 seasons, resulting in an overall record of 152-52, a conference championship in 1997, and a national championship in 1998.

Other names that have risen amidst speculation include Chattanooga athletic director David Blackburn, who also has previous experience at Tennessee, and current Tennessee executive senior associate athletic director Jon Gilbert.