Josh Heupel is getting close to finalizing his first offensive staff on Rocky Top as the first-year Tennessee coach has reportedly made another hire in Knoxville.

According to John Brice of FootballScoop, Heupel has added former Auburn co-offensive coordinator and receivers coach Kodi Burns to Tennessee’s coaching staff.

Interestingly, this marks the second time this offseason Heupel has hired Burns. Tennessee’s new head coach previously recruited the former Auburn assistant to join him at UCF before Heupel left the Knights for the Volunteers.

Before joining Heupel in Orlando, Burns coached under Gus Malzahn at Auburn from 2016-2020, working as the co-offensive coordinator and receivers coach during that time. During the 2019 and 2020 seasons, Burns was also given the title of passing game coordinator at Auburn.

According to his 247Sports coaching profile, Burns helped Auburn land 12 four-star prospects during his time working for Mazlahn.

During his playing career at Auburn, Burns played quarterback and receiver for the Tigers. He ended his career with 1,312 passing yards with seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions, 799 rushing yards with 10 scores on the ground and 16 catches for 223 yards and another two touchdowns.

In his final season on the field, Burns helped Auburn win a national championship back in 2010.

Kodi Burns’ coaching history

  • 2016-20 Auburn
  • 2016 Arizona State
  • 2015 Middle Tennessee
  • 2014 Samford
  • 2013 Auburn
  • 2012 Arkansas State