Cooper Mays, a standout offensive lineman for the University of Tennessee Volunteers, delivered a heartfelt and emotional response as he faced the reality of playing his final game in a Tennessee uniform.

Mays, a standout offensive lineman for the University of Tennessee Volunteers, delivered a heartfelt and emotional response as he faced the reality of playing his final game in a Tennessee uniform.

 

Cooper Mays, a standout offensive lineman for the University of Tennessee Volunteers, delivered a heartfelt and emotional response as he faced the reality of playing his final game in a Tennessee uniform. Mays, who had been a cornerstone of the Vols’ offensive line throughout his career, expressed a mix of pride, nostalgia, and bittersweet emotion when reflecting on his time with the program.

In his emotional response, Mays acknowledged the significance of the moment, recognizing that the final game of his college career marked the end of an era for him personally, but also symbolized the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and growth. For Mays, football at Tennessee wasn’t just about the games, the wins, or the statistics—it was about the relationships he built, the lessons he learned, and the impact he had on the team and the community.

When asked about his feelings after the game, Mays spoke candidly about the challenges of the college football journey. “It’s been a wild ride,” Mays said, his voice tinged with emotion. “There’s so much love for this university, for this program, and for the guys I’ve shared the field with. It’s hard to put into words what it means to put on this jersey and play for Tennessee.”

As he reflected on his time at Tennessee, Mays noted that the connections he forged with his teammates were one of the most meaningful aspects of his experience. “These are my brothers, and that bond we share will last long after football,” he said. “We’ve been through a lot together, and we’ve grown as players and people. I’ll carry that with me for the rest of my life.”

Mays, who hails from Knoxville, Tennessee, had a unique connection to the Vols that went beyond just being a star athlete. Growing up in the shadows of Neyland Stadium, Mays had always dreamed of playing for the Volunteers. That dream became a reality when he committed to the team as a highly touted recruit and earned a starting role on the offensive line. His dedication to Tennessee was apparent in every game he played, and his leadership both on and off the field played a significant role in shaping the culture of the team.

As Mays looked forward to the next chapter in his life—whether that involved the NFL or other ventures—he expressed deep gratitude for his time at Tennessee. “I’m excited for whatever comes next, but I’ll never forget what Tennessee has given me,” Mays said. “The fans, the coaches, my teammates—this place has shaped me into the man I am today, and I’ll always be thankful for that.”

Mays’ final game also marked a significant moment for Tennessee football, as the team continued to build on the momentum generated under head coach Josh Heupel. Mays had been part of the foundation for a Tennessee program that was experiencing a resurgence after years of struggle. His leadership and consistency on the offensive line helped give the Vols the stability needed to compete at a high level in the SEC.

In conclusion, Cooper Mays’ response to playing his last game at Tennessee was a reflection of his deep love and respect for the university, his teammates, and the game of football. His journey was a testament to the hard work, dedication, and sacrifice required to succeed at the highest levels of college football. Though the chapter on his college career had closed, his legacy at Tennessee would continue to inspire future generations of players.