The University of Tennessee Volunteers football program has a storied history of producing NFL talent, and the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine is no exception. Six Tennessee players have received invitations to participate in this prestigious event, scheduled to take place from February 27 to March 2, 2025, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana. citeturn0search7
The University of Tennessee Volunteers football program has long been recognized for its rich tradition and success in producing top-tier NFL talent. From All-American players to Super Bowl champions, Tennessee has made its mark on the professional football landscape. With the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine approaching, the Volunteers are again showcasing the fruits of their labor, as several players are set to compete for an opportunity to further their careers in the NFL.
### A Legacy of NFL Talent
Tennessee’s football history is brimming with notable figures who have transitioned successfully from college football to the NFL. The Volunteers have produced 38 first-round NFL draft picks and countless All-Pro players, many of whom have left indelible marks on both the collegiate and professional levels.
Some of the most notable names from Tennessee’s past include:
– **Reggie White**, a Hall of Fame defensive end known as “The Minister of Defense” who played for the Philadelphia Eagles and Green Bay Packers.
– **Peyton Manning**, widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, who played 18 seasons in the league, primarily with the Indianapolis Colts.
– **Jason Witten**, a standout tight end who spent the majority of his career with the Dallas Cowboys and is considered one of the best to ever play the position.
These players and many others helped cement Tennessee’s reputation as a breeding ground for NFL talent, and the trend continues with the 2025 draft class.
### Tennessee’s 2025 NFL Scouting Combine Invitees
As the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine draws closer, six Tennessee Volunteers have received invitations to showcase their talents in front of NFL scouts, coaches, and general managers. This prestigious event is an essential part of the NFL draft process, where prospects undergo various drills, mental evaluations, and interviews to assess their suitability for the professional game.
The six players who have earned their invites represent the potential future of the Tennessee football program in the NFL. Here’s a closer look at each of these athletes and what they bring to the table:
#### 1. **James Pearce Jr. – Edge Rusher**
James Pearce Jr. has emerged as one of Tennessee’s most promising NFL prospects, particularly as an edge rusher. Pearce has been an impressive force on defense, known for his explosive first step, speed, and ability to close in on quarterbacks. He played a key role in Tennessee’s defensive schemes, racking up 38 tackles and 7.5 sacks in the 2024 season.
Pearce’s combination of athleticism and power makes him a potential first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. His performance at the NFL Combine will be crucial for establishing his value, as teams looking for a dynamic pass-rusher will be paying close attention to his agility, strength, and overall speed.
#### 2. **Dylan Sampson – Running Back**
Dylan Sampson was a standout player in Tennessee’s backfield, providing an explosive presence that kept defenses on their toes. In his junior season, Sampson rushed for 1,491 yards and 22 touchdowns, becoming one of the most productive backs in college football. His quickness, vision, and ability to break tackles make him a dangerous weapon in both the running and passing game.
Sampson is an intriguing NFL prospect due to his versatility and playmaking ability. At the Combine, he will need to demonstrate his speed and agility in the 40-yard dash and other drills, while also showing his ability to catch passes out of the backfield.
#### 3. **Omarr Norman-Lott – Defensive Tackle**
Omarr Norman-Lott is a disruptive force on Tennessee’s defensive line. Known for his strong presence in the trenches, Norman-Lott excels at clogging running lanes and applying pressure on quarterbacks. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated the ability to read plays and react quickly, often finding himself in the backfield to make a stop.
At the 2025 NFL Combine, Norman-Lott will have the opportunity to show off his explosiveness in drills like the 40-yard dash and the bench press, while also displaying his technique in pass-rushing drills. Teams that prioritize a stout defensive front will be closely watching Norman-Lott’s performance.
#### 4. **Elijah Simmons – Defensive Tackle**
Elijah Simmons is another key defensive player for Tennessee, contributing significantly to the team’s defensive success over the years. With his immense size and physicality, Simmons is a formidable presence at defensive tackle. While he may not be as flashy as other prospects, his ability to anchor the defensive line and stop the run makes him a valuable asset at the next level.
At the Combine, Simmons will have the chance to demonstrate his power and stamina in the bench press and other strength-based drills. His performance could help elevate his draft stock, particularly among teams seeking a run-stuffing defensive tackle.
#### 5. **Dont’e Thornton Jr. – Wide Receiver**
Dont’e Thornton Jr. has been one of Tennessee’s top receiving threats, known for his speed and deep-ball ability. Thornton stands out for his ability to stretch the field and create mismatches with his athleticism. In the 2024 season, he was the team’s leading receiver with 661 yards and six touchdowns. His exceptional route running and big-play potential make him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams.
At the Combine, Thornton’s ability to run crisp routes and showcase his speed in the 40-yard dash will be closely evaluated. His size and hands will also be scrutinized as NFL teams look for a receiver who can make an immediate impact in their passing game.
#### 6. **Bru McCoy – Wide Receiver**
Bru McCoy has been a reliable target for Tennessee’s quarterbacks, providing consistency and playmaking ability throughout his college career. McCoy’s impressive stats, including 39 receptions for 472 yards and two touchdowns, highlight his ability to step up when needed. His strength and route-running capabilities make him a potential NFL starter.
At the NFL Combine, McCoy will need to impress scouts with his overall athleticism, ability to separate from defenders, and hands in contested catches. His combine results will be pivotal in determining whether he can make a successful transition to the NFL as a productive receiver.
### The NFL Combine: A Crucial Opportunity
The NFL Scouting Combine is one of the most important events for draft-eligible players. It provides NFL teams with the chance to evaluate players’ physical attributes through a series of drills, such as the 40-yard dash, bench press, three-cone drill, and position-specific exercises. Beyond the physical tests, the combine also includes interviews with team personnel, psychological assessments, and discussions on players’ football IQs and character.
For the six Tennessee Volunteers invited to the 2025 NFL Combine, this is their opportunity to leave a lasting impression on NFL scouts. While their college careers have helped lay the groundwork for their NFL aspirations, the combine is the final stage where they can solidify their draft positions.
### Tennessee’s Continued NFL Pipeline
The number of Tennessee players invited to the NFL Scouting Combine in 2025 underscores the Volunteers’ ongoing success in developing talent capable of competing at the highest level. Tennessee continues to produce athletes who have the physical tools, skills, and work ethic necessary to thrive in the NFL.
As the combine approaches, these six players will be preparing for one of the most important events of their careers. Their performance could help determine where they are selected in the draft, but it will also contribute to Tennessee’s legacy as a powerhouse in producing elite NFL talent. For fans of the Volunteers, watching these players compete at the NFL Combine will be a reminder of the program’s lasting impact on professional football.
**1. James Pearce Jr. – Edge Rusher**
James Pearce Jr. is widely regarded as the most prominent Tennessee prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft class. Over his collegiate career, Pearce has been a formidable presence on the defensive line, known for his exceptional pass-rushing abilities and relentless motor. In his junior season, he recorded 38 tackles and 7.5 sacks, showcasing his capacity to disrupt opposing offenses. Pearce’s performance has positioned him as a potential first-round pick in the upcoming draft. citeturn0search7
**2. Dylan Sampson – Running Back**
Dylan Sampson has been a dynamic force in Tennessee’s backfield, particularly during his junior year. He set a new school record by rushing for 1,491 yards and 22 touchdowns on 258 carries, demonstrating his versatility and playmaking ability. Sampson’s combination of speed, vision, and agility makes him a compelling prospect for NFL teams seeking a multifaceted running back. citeturn0search7
**3. Omarr Norman-Lott – Defensive Tackle**
Omarr Norman-Lott has been a key contributor to Tennessee’s defensive line, known for his strength and ability to clog running lanes. Throughout his tenure with the Volunteers, he has been instrumental in the team’s defensive schemes, providing stability and leadership in the trenches. His performance at the NFL Combine will be crucial in determining his draft stock. citeturn0search7
**4. Elijah Simmons – Defensive Tackle**
Elijah Simmons has been a reliable presence on Tennessee’s defensive line, contributing significantly to the team’s defensive efforts. His ability to disrupt the line of scrimmage and his consistency in performance have made him a valuable asset to the Volunteers. Simmons’ participation in the NFL Combine will provide an opportunity to showcase his skills to NFL scouts and coaches. citeturn0search7
**5. Dont’e Thornton Jr. – Wide Receiver**
Dont’e Thornton Jr. has been a standout wide receiver for Tennessee, known for his speed and ability to stretch the field. His performance in the 2024 season, where he led the team with 661 receiving yards and six touchdowns, highlighted his potential as a deep threat. Thornton’s agility and route-running skills make him a promising prospect for NFL teams in need of a dynamic wide receiver. citeturn0search7
**6. Bru McCoy – Wide Receiver**
Bru McCoy has been a consistent and reliable target in Tennessee’s passing game. Leading the team with 39 receptions for 472 yards and two touchdowns, McCoy’s ability to make plays in critical moments has been a significant asset to the Volunteers. His hands and route-running proficiency will be key factors in his evaluation at the NFL Combine. citeturn0search7
**NFL Combine Overview**
The NFL Scouting Combine serves as a critical evaluation platform for draft-eligible players, offering NFL teams the opportunity to assess prospects through a series of physical and mental tests. These evaluations play a pivotal role in shaping draft decisions and providing insights into a player’s potential at the professional level.
For the Tennessee Volunteers, the 2025 NFL Combine represents a significant milestone, with six players earning invitations to showcase their talents on a national stage. This achievement underscores the program’s commitment to developing NFL-caliber talent and highlights the individual and collective efforts of the players involved.
As the NFL Combine approaches, the Tennessee Volunteers’ six invitees will have the opportunity to solidify their draft positions and make a lasting impression on NFL scouts and executives. Their performances during this event will be closely watched, as they aim to transition from collegiate standouts to professional athletes in the National Football League.
For a more in-depth look at the six Tennessee players invited to the 2025 NFL Combine, you can watch the following video:
videoSix Tennessee Football Players Receive Invites To NFL Combineturn0search5
