Ahead of the 2024 football season, Smokey XI will not take on full responsibilities as Tennessee’s new mascot during the 2024 season according Tennessee spokesperson. 

Smokey XI will solely run through the “T” this season, beginning with Tennessee football’s season opener against Chattanooga on Saturday. He will not participate in other duties as the mascot, including running through the end zone after each touchdown.

The Hudson family cares for Smokey XI and made this decision alongside Tennessee athletics and the UT College of Veterinary Medicine. The decision was taken to help Smokey XI’s development as a mascot of Tennessee football.

“It is not uncommon for the dogs serving as the Smokey mascot to need time to adjust to running through the ‘T’ and the atmosphere in Neyland Stadium,” the spokesperson said.

Smokey XI made limited on-field appearances during the 2023 season and at the 2024 Orange and White game.

Live mascots at Tennessee football games began in 1953 when Blue Smokey was introduced against Mississippi State. Since then, Tennessee games have included a Bluetick Coonhound leading Tennessee onto the field through the “T” formed by the Pride of the Southland band. There have been 10 dogs who have taken on this role, and each is represented by a statue on Tennessee’s campus.

Smokey X ended his 11-year career as Tennessee’s mascot following last year’s win over Vanderbilt. He is healthy and enjoying retirement with the Hudson family per the document. Tennessee football compiled a record of 77-60 during Smokey X’s career, but 11 of those wins were vacated due to NCAA violations.

Tennessee football begins its 2024 season against Chattanooga on Saturday. The home schedule features matchups against Florida, Kentucky, Alabama and Mississippi State. Smokey XI is scheduled to be present for these games but will only run through the “T.”