Home Sweet Home: Just Hours Ago, Coopers Mays Makes Triumphant Return to Tennessee Volunteers as Director of Player Development, Bringing NFL Experience and Leadership to His Alma Mater

In a heartwarming development for the Tennessee Volunteers community, former standout center Cooper Mays has returned to his alma mater as the Director of Player Development. This appointment marks a significant milestone in Mays’s journey, transitioning from a key player to a pivotal leadership role within the team.

Mays’s collegiate career at Tennessee from 2020 to 2024 was marked by exceptional performances. He started 45 of 53 games, earning First-Team All-SEC and All-American honors in his final season. Notably, he became the program’s first-ever finalist for the Rimington Trophy, awarded to the nation’s top center. His leadership on the field was instrumental in guiding the Volunteers to their first College Football Playoff appearance in 2024.

Following his collegiate success, Mays participated in the Miami Dolphins’ rookie minicamp as an undrafted free agent. Although he did not secure a spot on the roster, his passion for the game and commitment to mentorship remained unwavering. This dedication has now led him back to Knoxville, where he aims to shape the next generation of Volunteers.

In his new role, Mays will focus on the holistic development of student-athletes, emphasizing personal growth, academic achievement, and preparation for life beyond football. His firsthand experience as both a college athlete and a professional hopeful positions him uniquely to provide invaluable insights and support to the team.

Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel expressed enthusiasm about Mays’s return, stating, “Cooper’s journey exemplifies the values we instill in our program. His experiences and leadership will undoubtedly have a profound impact on our players.”