Pair of Vols land on ESPN's early 2024 All-American teams

ESPN revealed their early 2024 college football All-American teams this week and a couple of Tennessee Vols players were included. 

Vols edge rusher James Pearce was included as a member of the first team after his strong performance as a sophomore in 2023. 

From ESPN: Pearce tied for the SEC sacks lead (10) last season with Dallas Turner and Nathaniel Watson and returns for his junior season as one of the top NFL draft prospects in the league. The 6-5, 242-pound Pearce has terrific burst off the edge and is a nightmare for any tackle to block. He was tied for fifth nationally last season with 38 total pressures, according to Pro Football Focus.

One NFL scout recently told ESPN that Pearce would be the top defensive player selected in the 2024 NFL Draft if he were eligible. Vols fans will likely only get to enjoy Pearce for one more season on Rocky Top before he declares for the 2025 NFL Draft. 

The other Vol that's included on ESPN's All-American teams is center Cooper Mays, who is listed as a member of the second team. 

Mays is returning to Tennessee in 2024 for his final season of eligibility. The Knoxville native is one of the most important players on the Vols' roster. Mays is the leader of the offensive line and he holds a lot of responsibility when it comes to on-field communication during games. He's a veteran in Josh Heupel's offense and he will be a key asset for quarterback Nico Iamaleava in 2024.