Vols fans, it’s time to welcome a new pup to Rocky Top: Meet Smokey XII.
The University of Tennessee has introduced its newest mascot, a two-year-old bluetick coonhound named Neyland. He came to UT through word of mouth after his previous owners were no longer able to care for him. After an evaluation, the university saw his potential to carry on the Smokey legacy, a beloved tradition for 70+ years.
For now, Neyland is being fostered by a staff member at UT’s College of Veterinary Medicine, where he’s training and getting used to the sights and sounds of gameday crowds.
If you missed it, Smokey XI retired after the 2025 football season and now lives with the Hudson family, longtime stewards of the Smokey tradition.
Smokey XII is set to make his official debut at the 2026 Orange and White spring football game on Saturday, April 11 in Neyland Stadium.