Tennessee football has announced the addition of kicker Cooper Ranvier, formerly of Louisville, to their roster. This move comes as a direct response to the transfer of Max Gilbert to Arkansas.
Cooper Ranvier: A Promising Addition to Tennessee Football
Cooper Ranvier is known for his accuracy and reliability on the field. During the 2025 season, he made 21 of 25 field goal attempts, achieving an impressive accuracy rate of 84%. This performance ranked him fifth in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
Impressive Scoring Record
- Field goals: 21 of 25 (84%)
- PAT kicks: 40 of 42
- Total points scored: 102
Ranvier was particularly proficient in short and mid-range kicks, hitting 19 of 20 attempts under 50 yards. He also made two field goals from beyond 50 yards, including a 50-yarder against Virginia and a 51-yarder against Clemson.
Background and Ranking
The Lexington, Kentucky native holds the distinction of being the No. 5 kicker in the 2024 recruiting class, according to Chris Sailing Kicking, an organization dedicated to scouting elite kickers. Ranvier has three seasons of eligibility remaining, making him a valuable asset for the Vols.
Addressing Team Needs
With Gilbert’s transfer, Tennessee sought to bolster their special teams. Gilbert had a challenging 2025 season, making 14 of 19 field goals and missing key kicks in crucial moments. His overall record included making all 118 PAT attempts and 34 of 45 field goals.
Special Teams Dynamics
Although Ranvier did not serve as Louisville’s kickoff specialist, Tennessee is well-equipped in this area. Josh Turbyville earned All-SEC honors in 2025 as a kickoff specialist, achieving 67 touchbacks, the third most nationwide.
Transfer Portal Moves
Ranvier is the fifth player Tennessee has acquired from the transfer portal. The team has also welcomed:
- Kansas State safety Qua Moss
- LSU offensive tackle Ory Williams
- Auburn cornerback Kayin Lee
- Penn State defensive tackle Xavier Gilliam
As Tennessee football continues to build its roster, the addition of Cooper Ranvier is a strategic move aimed at enhancing their special teams as they prepare for the upcoming season.
