Cooper Mays sees the big picture.
The former Tennessee center was certainly disappointed with the way the Vols’ season ended – a 42-17 thumping by Ohio State – but savy enough to realize that Tennessee’s football program is far better than when the Vols’ crew of upperclassmen began building.
“Definitely not the the ending that we wanted, obviously,” Mays said during the Vol Report. “That’s probably been the most recent thing that probably everybody’s thought, but, overall, really, really special. What’s been done in the last few years here at Tennessee in my time here, been been really cool to be a part of it and, and see it all unfold is truly special.”
Mays’ play will be tough to replace. His leadership may be even more difficult to replicate. Mays is widely considered one of the best leaders amongst Tennessee’s football team. He’s put that attribute on display countless times since he signed with the Vols in 2020.
So who will be the next great leader for the Vols?
“I think Arion Carter,” Mays said referring to the Vols’ outside linebacker. “I think he’s a strong, young guy. Telander as well. Jeremiah. So they’re in the same position group.
“I think those two guys are really strong that I’ve seen. It’s hard to really make a true impact as a leader, as a young guy. But those are two guys, they have, they had great people to look up to and in their room. It’s helped them out for sure.”
Of course, Mays’ leadership will be missed most on the offensive line. Are the Vols better equipped to build from within and not the transfer portal?
Tennessee has only slowly started to develop offensive linemen on a more consistent basis. Guard Andrej Karic took a huge step this season while the Vols struggle at offensive tackle. He was a transfer, but it showed the Vols’ can develop offensive linemen. That had been up for debate.
“For Andre to make such an impact, starting every game and playing, the grand majority of the snaps I think probably him,” Mays said when asked he’d commend from 2024.
With Mays and some others gone, there will be more opportunities for younger offensive lineman. That could be good for the Vols, but there are likely some stumbling blocks in the road.
