Former Tennessee Vols running back signs free agent deal with NFC franchise

The former Tennessee Vols running back has a new home in the NFL.

Zach Ragan Tennessee Volunteers News Writer
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A former Tennessee Vols running back has a new home in the NFL.

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, former Volunteers running back Ty Chandler agreed to a deal with the New Orleans Saints on Tuesday.

Chandler, who is from Nashville, spent the first four seasons of his NFL career with the Minnesota Vikings.

Chandler’s best season in the NFL came in 2023 when he rushed for 461 yards and three touchdowns.

Ty Chandler spent four seasons at Tennessee

Chandler spent four seasons on Rocky Top.

The former four-star recruit started his career at Tennessee under Butch Jones in 2017. He played his final three seasons in Knoxville under Jeremy Pruitt before transferring to North Carolina for his final season of eligibility.

Chandler rushed for 2,046 yards and 13 touchdowns during his four seasons with the Vols. During his lone season with the Tar Heels, Chandler rushed for 1,092 yards and 13 touchdowns. He also returned a kickoff for a touchdown as a true freshman at Tennessee.

The Saints signed Travis Etienne last week to serve as their featured running back in 2026.

Former Vols running back Alvin Kamara, who is a candidate to retire, is also still on the Saints roster.

As a result, Chandler is expected to serve as running back depth in New Orleans.