Phillip Fulmer underwent a medical procedure at UT Medical Center Thursday morning, his family announced in a released statement. The former Tennessee coach and athletic director is alert and in good spirits, but will remain in the hospital for a few days, according to his family.

The family’s statement makes sure to note that Fulmer is ready to cheer on the Vols this fall.

“Phillip underwent a medical procedure Thursday at UT Medical Center. He is alert and in good spirits and will remain at the hospital for a few days. We are thankful for the outstanding care he’s receiving, and we also appreciate the prayers and concern of so many who have reached out. He is looking forward to cheering on the Vols as they kickoff another exciting season!”

A native of Winchester, Tennessee, Fulmer played for UT from 1968-to-1971. He became a Tennessee football student assistant in 1972 and would return in 1980 to become the Volunteers’ offensive line coach.

After more than a decade as an assistant coach, Fulmer became Tennessee’s head coach in 1992, a position he held until 2008. Under Fulmer, the Vols posted a record of 152-52, winning the 1998 national championship and 2 SEC titles. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2012.

Fulmer took on a UT administrative role as a special advisor to the president in June 2017. Later that year, he became Tennessee’s athletic director, succeeding John Currie.

Fulmer’s tenure as AD came to an end in 2021. He retired from Tennessee as the program dealt with NCAA violations under Jeremy Pruitt, who was hired by Fulmer in late 2017. Fulmer’s 73rd birthday is coming up on Sept. 1.