Jim Chaney officially tabbed the new OC at Tennessee

Defensive coordinator won’t be the only position Kirby Smart has to fill for the 2019 campaign.

Tuesday night, sources confirmed to UGASports that Co-offensive coordinator Jim Chaney is expected to accept an offer to become the offensive coordinator at Tennessee.

Tennessee made the hire official Wednesday morning.

""I'm thrilled to announce Jim Chaney as our offensive coordinator," Pruitt said. "Jim couldn't be a better fit for our program at the University of Tennessee. His track record of success guiding offenses speaks for itself from his time at Purdue with Drew Brees to his time in the NFL and his success in the SEC at Georgia, Arkansas, and, of course, previously with the Vols," Tennessee head coach Jeremy Pruitt said. ""What most impresses me about Jim is his knowledge of the game and also the way he has adapted his offenses to his players' strengths. He's had years where he has guided one of the nation's top passing offenses and years where his offenses have been near the top in rushing. He could coach every position on offense and is a true teacher of the game."

Chaney replaces Tyson Helton who was named the head coach at Western Carolina

Among the potential replacements, Smart is believed to be keeping an eye on fellow co-offensive coordinator James Coley, who could be under consideration to replace Chaney, although nothing is final and other candidates could be vetted. Chaney just completed his third year with the Bulldogs and who’s offense has ranked among the leaders nationally in several categories.

Last year, the Bulldogs ranked second in the SEC in scoring offense at 37.9 points per game, fifth in total offense (465.7 yards per game), first in rushing offense (238.8 yards) and eighth in passing offense (226.9)

A 33-year coaching veteran and a veteran of the SEC, Chaney will be making his second stop with the Volunteers from 2009 to 2012, ultimately serving as the interim head coach in 2012.