DALLAS, Texas – Tennessee linebacker Keenan Pili knew his role. At least he thought he did. He was actually in better standing as a Vol than he could ever dream.
Coming off of an injury that ended his season in the opening game, the transfer from BYU wanted to be a leader, considered himself a leader, but being chosen to represent the Vols at SEC Media Days? Pili didn’t expect that.
“Yeah for sure,” the senior said when asked if he was surprised about being chosen to participate in the unofficial kickoff to college football season this week in Dallas, Texas. “Especially being a transfer, really just honored that they were able to extend it to me and excited to be here, grateful for the opportunity, grateful for the trust.”
That trust hasn’t come from playing time. Pili has barely had any of that. He suffered a season-ending triceps injury in the Vols’ first game last season against Virginia. The trust that his teammates have in him is born out of his approach off the field. Pili is well known for being a popular player among his teammates and one that knows the Vols’ playbook as well as anyone. That’s led to him being accepted, despite transferring BYU following the 2022 season.
“It really does mean everything because I look up to a lot of those boys and I’m sure they know that,” Pili said. “I think it’s just a great opportunity to be here. And if they need me here to to do it, I’ll do it. And I’m grateful for the opportunity.”
That’s the kind of attitude that the Vols are looking for. They’re also looking for better play out of their defense, which struggled, especially at linebacker, when Pili went down last season. Pili, who is 26-years-old, certainly brings a maturity that Tennessee could use this season.
Pili has chosen his workout partners wisely. He has been regularly lifting and conditioning with EDGE rusher James Pearce, Jr. Now, linebacker Arion Carter has joined the mix. Both are considered two of the most physically gifted players on Tennessee’s teams.
“No doubt,” Pili said. “Freaky athletes. Freaky athletes…One thing I noticed since being here. There’s so much talent around you. So, you know, the ceiling is high and it’s just a question, ‘Can we put it together?’ That’s on us. That’s on us to be player led and to build a team that can be successful.”
As for goals for this season, Pili said he isn’t concerned about himself.
“I want to win championships,” Pili said. “I think that’s been the big thing. I want to compete for championships and feel like I can play a role in that.
“And I feel like our team can actually get it done.”
Coverage of SEC Media Days live form Dallas, Texas is brought to you by WorkTrux and Volunteer Automotive Group.
