Chavis, 52, began his coaching career in 1979 as a graduate assistant at Tennessee. After a year he moved to Alabama A&M to serve as the defensive line coach from 1980-1983. Chavis then went to Alabama State for two years, serving as the defensive coordinator before going back to Alabama A&M from 1986-1988.

Chavis returned to Tennessee in 1989 and served as the defensive line and linebackers coach. He held that position until he was promoted to defensive coordinator in 1995.

Over Chavis' 14 seasons as the Vols' defensive coordinator, Tennessee's defense ranked in the top four in the SEC in total defense 10 times. The Vols have played in 12 bowl games since 1995, including three appearances in BCS bowl games.