That’s the reality behind the Volunteers’ upcoming apparel switch from the Swoosh to Adidas' three stripes, according to longtime Tennessee insider Wes Rucker. After 12 years with Nike, Tennessee’s contract gave the brand the right to counter any competing offer — and they didn’t.

Tennessee and Adidas agreed to a 10-year apparel contract that starts in July 2026 as AD Danny White and the Vols ditched Nike for a new deal.

Tennessee athletics is officially making the switch back to Adidas as its apparel and equipment partner, the school announced on Wednesday. In addition to the traditional apparel partnership, Adidas will be providing Tennessee athletes with NIL opportunities throughout the deal.