The Tennessee coaching search has gone on for far longer than anyone expected and has seen many embarrassing twists and turns.

However, new AD Phillip Fulmer may be nearing a hire, according to reports on Wednesday night.

Per a tweet from Yahoo! Sports reporter Pete Thamel, Pruitt, who had his second interview with the Vols on Wednesday morning, is emerging as the leading candidate for the position:

Pruitt has been the Crimson Tide’s defensive coordinator since Kirby Smart left to take over the Georgia job prior to the 2016 season.

In that time, the Alabama defense has continued to be one of the country’s best. Pruitt’s squad will compete for another national title this year after having been named the No. 4 seed in the College Football Playoff.

With preparations for the Sugar Bowl game upcoming, a deal with Pruitt will need to get done soon so he can return his focus to his current job.