'Playing at Tennessee means the world to him' - Vols redshirt freshman is forcing the issue during fall camp

Tennessee Vols redshirt freshman offensive lineman Jesse Perry has forced his way into the starting offensive line conversation.

Perry, a former three-star recruit from Murfreesboro, TN, played in just four games (72 total snaps) for the Vols as a true freshman last season.

Entering the offseason, Perry wasn't viewed as a likely starting option in 2025. But a solid summer/fall camp has Perry very much in the conversation for the starting right guard job.

"He's put on 40 pounds since he's been here," said VolQuest's Brent Hubbs of Perry on Friday during an appearance on 104.5 The Zone's Ramon and Will. "He's physical, he's just turned himself into just a really good football player, and I think he's driven to be good. I think he wants to be great. I think that he's smart and understands the offense very well. And he's a guy who -- I mean, playing at Tennessee means the world to him, in a day and age where we don't see that often.

"Yeah, he's a bit of a throwback. But man, I tell you what, the defensive linemen, you go to talk to them [and ask], 'Who gives you a great test every snap?' They'll tell you it's him. (Vols defensive line coach) Rodney Garner praises him. The offensive line coach praises him. His offensive line teammates praise him. There's a ton of respect for him in this program, for a guy who's played as little as he's played. But I have a feeling he's going to play a lot this fall for Tennessee."

Vols offensive line coach Glen Elarbee told reporters earlier this week that Perry "does everything right".

"Jesse does everything right," said Elarbee. "Absolutely everything. From eating habits, recovery, film study, coaching other players. That’s the reason he puts himself in positions that he’s at....His body has changed so much since he’s been here. He’s highly intellectual, so he studies the crap out of everything. That’s what he does....You don’t want to say anybody’s perfect, but he’s pretty close to doing everything right.”

If Perry starts at right guard, it will likely mean that Notre Dame transfer Sam Pendleton is starting at center. Perry can also play offensive tackle if needed, so he provides some important versatility for the Volunteers.

Perry wasn't expected to be a starter for Tennessee in 2025, but he now has a strong shot to start thanks to the growth he's experienced over the last few months.