The country music world is still reeling after the recent death of Dolly Parton, and her remembrance is now spreading into college football as well.
The Tennessee Volunteers are gearing up for another SEC season in 2026 after finishing 8-5 a year ago. However, head coach Josh Heupel and his team are planning to up the stakes by paying tribute to Parton.
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Heupel reveals that the Volunteers players will wear helmet decals this season honoring the country icon. Tennessee served as the home to the Nashville star for many years after living in the state her entire life.
Volunteers football players’ helmets feature a butterfly sticker with Parton’s signature written in cursive.
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Tennessee football coach Josh Heupel encourages David Sanders Jr. as he returns to the locker room after losing to Vanderbilt in NCAA college football game. Credit: USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect (Reuters)
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The Volunteers also held a special place in Parton’s heart after making her fandom known t an early age. Parton featured at the school on many occasions to celebrate Tennessee’s sporting teams.
NEW: Tennessee will honor the late Dolly Parton with a helmet sticker on the back of its helmets, Josh Heupel announced🧡https://t.co/gns3cEG3NI pic.twitter.com/4wabMNtcMm
— On3 (@On3) August 31, 2026
Her 2023 rendition of “Rocky Top” alongside NFL legend Peyton Manning is still considered an iconic moment in school history. Manning was one of the first notable athletes to share his condolences with the Parton family after her passing.
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The country music legend lived to age 80 after her death was revealed to the public on Aug. 25, 2026.
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