VFL Bob Neyland Jr. Dies at 93

Son of Legendary Gen. Robert R. Neyland Played For Vols From 1951-53

Football
February 23, 2023

Bob Neyland, Jr., the oldest son of legendary Tennessee football coach Gen. Robert R. Neyland, died Tuesday morning in a hospice care facility in Marietta, Georgia, at the age of 93.

Bob grew up in Knoxville along with his younger brother, Lewis. Both were letterwinners in various sports at Tennessee.

Bob played for his father in football as a reserve on the 1951 national championship team and then lettered in 1952. He also earned a letter in 1953 under head coach Harvey Robinson. Bob was also a member of the swimming program, earning letters in 1952 and 1953 and serving as team captain for the 1953 season. 

His brother, Lewis, who died in March 2013, was a three-sport letterman in basketball (1953-56), tennis (1953-54) and golf (1957).

Bob, who spent most of his working career in the Nashville area, is survived by two sons Blake and Reese Neyland.

Funeral arrangements are pending.