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Vols fans will appreciate why star edge rusher James Pearce wore No. 27 during his three seasons at Tennessee

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Zach Ragan | Last updated Feb 27, 2025 12:44 PM ET

It's becoming increasingly common for college football players to change jersey numbers from year to year.

As older players leave for the NFL, younger players are eager to scoop up more desirable jersey numbers.

Tennessee Vols edge rusher James Pearce, however, stuck with No. 27 during his three seasons on Rocky Top.

Pearce, who is taking part in the NFL scouting combine in Indianapolis this week, was asked by NBC Sports' Chris Simms why he chose 27 (which Simms described as an "odd" number for a pass rusher to wear).

The Charlotte native referenced some Tennessee history while explaining why he chose the number.

"Wearing it at Tennessee, Coach Heup (Josh Heupel) being the 27th head coach at Tennessee [and] Al Wilson," explained Pearce. "And I don't think Coach Heup would've probably let me come out of it."

Pearce didn't speak to the media very often during his time at Tennessee, which has led to some questions about his enigmatic nature.

The former Vol, however, took time to speak to various media outlets on Wednesday at the combine, seemingly quelling any concerns about his ability to handle the national media.

During those interviews, Pearce came across as a confident (but not arrogant) player who is passionate about playing football. He's not about the glitz and glamour, he's about sacking quarterbacks and creating havoc between the lines.

Pearce is viewed as a likely first-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. In recent mock drafts, Pearce has been going around pick 15 or later in the first round. A strong week at the combine, specifically when it comes to interviews with teams, could lift the former Vol into the top half of the first round.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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