Three players from Tennessee were selected for the All-SEC squad, which was announced today. James Pearce Jr., a sophomore edge rusher, led the group with 24 tackles and 8.5 sacks, earning first-team recognition. These three were considered to be among the best in the SEC.
With an average of 7.4 yards per carry, running back Jaylen Wright was one of the most efficient runners in school history this season, becoming the first rusher to surpass 1,000 yards since 2015. He was also the most reliable and explosive playmaker for the offense, scoring long touchdown runs to open games against Kentucky and Georgia.
Center Cooper Mays missed the first few games of the season, and you could tell. When he came back into the game, Tennessee’s offensive line improved dramatically. Additionally, since he did not take part in Senior Day activities against Vanderbilt, he may be able to exercise his one-year remaining eligibility and rejoin the 2024 squad. Having the leader of the offensive line back would be very beneficial for quarterback Nico Iamaleava, who is expected to start in 2023.
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