Two Tennessee players secure spots on ESPN’s “Way-Too-Early” All-American Teams.
ESPN unveiled its “premature” All-American teams for the upcoming 2024 college football season, with Tennessee anticipated to shine in the inaugural year of the 12-team College Football Playoff era. The Vols secured two spots on the list, headlined by standout edge rusher James Pearce Jr., who earned a first-team designation as a defensive end. Pearce had an exceptional breakout season, drawing praise from an AFC West scout who suggested he could be the first defensive player chosen in the 2024 NFL Draft. Notably, Pearce delivered a stellar performance in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl against the Iowa Hawkeyes, showcasing his skills with an interception returned for a touchdown and a forced fumble on a strip-sack.
In the SEC, Pearce shared the lead in sacks last season (10) with Dallas Turner and Nathaniel Watson. As he enters his junior season, Pearce is recognized as one of the premier NFL draft prospects in the league, standing out with his explosive edge rush and causing nightmares for opposing tackles. According to Pro Football Focus, Pearce ranked fifth nationally last season with 38 total pressures.
On the offensive side, Tennessee’s center, Cooper Mays, secured a spot on the second team, trailing behind Alabama’s center, Parker Brailsford, who transferred from Washington. Mays has been a crucial component of Tennessee’s offensive line for several years, and his absence at the beginning of the previous season was evident. Looking ahead, Mays is poised to lead a talented unit in the upcoming season, supporting redshirt freshman quarterback Nico Iamaleava.
