ESPN released its 2024 preseason All-America team on Wednesday.
Tennessee defensive lineman James Pearce Jr. was selected as part of the first team defense.
“Pearce was one of the sport’s breakout stars a year ago and enters his junior season as one of the most feared pass rushers in the country,” Chris Low said. “He tied for the SEC lead last season with 10 sacks and tied for fifth nationally with 38 total pressures, according to Pro Football Focus. The 6-5 Pearce has bulked up since arriving on campus and is now 243 pounds. Some scouts think he could be the top defender taken in the 2025 NFL draft.”
Pearce Jr. was Tennessee’s only player selected on ESPN’s first team offense or defense. Center Cooper Mays was named as a second team offensive player.
