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'I love his style' - NFL GM and Pro Football Hall of Famer shows appreciation for former Tennessee Vols WR Jauan Jennings

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Zach Ragan | Last updated Jun 16, 2025 7:15 PM ET

Tennessee Vols fans have to be happy to see former UT wide receiver Jauan Jennings finally receiving some national recognition.

Jennings became a fan favorite during his time in Knoxville for the way he played each game like it was his last. The Tennessee native showed up on Saturdays and played every snap with relentless effort.

Despite his status as a standout player with the Vols, Jennings wasn't selected until the seventh round of the 2020 NFL Draft by the San Francisco 49ers.

After a slow start to his NFL career -- Jennings had to prove his worth as a wide receiver -- the former Vol is finally viewed as one of the top wide receivers in the league.

And that's exactly how the 49ers are treating him.

San Francisco is counting on Jennings to play a huge role in 2025 - -especially at the start of the season -- with Deebo Samuel no longer in town and Brandon Aiyuk expected to miss the start of the season while recovering from a torn ACL.

49ers NFL general manager and Pro Football Hall of Famer John Lynch recently joined NBC Sports Bay Area for an interview and he explained that the presence of Jennings is a big reason why he feels comfortable with San Francisco's wide receiver group in 2025.

"I think, first of all, you start with Jauan," said Lynch. "Jauan had a tremendous season last year. He's been a tremendous competitor and player for us since he's been here. I think the fans and the team feed off Jauan's energy. He plays football the right way. I love his style."

It's certainly great to see Jennings finally getting the recognition he deserves. The way he plays the game should be example to every young football player that's hoping to reach the NFL one day.

Jennings is entering the final year of the two-year extension he signed last summer. The former Vol could be in line for another extension before the start of the 2025 season.

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

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