KNOXVILLE, TN - NOVEMBER 04: Head coach Butch Jones of the Tennessee Volunteers reacts against the Southern Miss Golden Eagles during the second half at Neyland Stadium on November 4, 2017 in Knoxville, Tennessee. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

FOX Sports analyst says Tennessee has 'genuine interest' in one top coaching candidate

This could be pretty good for the Vols.

The coaching search in Knoxville is under way and there have been a ton of names linked to the opening left by the firing of Butch Jones. FOX Sports analyst Bruce Feldman believes that the Volunteers have "genuine interest" in another SEC coach though who has proven he can win in the conference.

$6.5 million is a hefty sum and the school will owe Jones just over $8 million to be paid to him over the next several years. However, they would be getting a proven commodity in Mullen who has actually beaten Nick Saban and would not have to deal with the tougher SEC West every year. His recruiting prowess in the state of Florida —- having spent time as a Gator assistant —- will surely help on the recruiting trail as well.