Latest blockbuster NFL news could mean a potential landing spot for former Tennessee Vol
Former Tennessee Vols edge rusher James Pearce, Jr. will hear his name called in the NFL Draft next month, and very likely on the first night – even if some pundits have more recently put that in doubt. The chances of a first-round selection might have gone up on Thursday following the news surrounding a […]
Former Tennessee Vols edge rusher James Pearce, Jr. will hear his name called in the NFL Draft next month, and very likely on the first night – even if some pundits have more recently put that in doubt.
The chances of a first-round selection might have gone up on Thursday following the news surrounding a 2024 NFL first-team All-Pro. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Cincinnati Bengals are allowing DE Trey Hendrickson to seek a trade, likely signaling the end of his time with the franchise.
Hendrickson, who led the NFL in sacks in 2024 with 17.5, is seeking a new deal after far outpacing his current contract. With Ja'Marr Chase still waiting to be given a mega-deal and Tee Higgins playing on the franchise tag, it seems they couldn't spread the cap space around to everyone they'd like.
However, it's not the first defensive end they will be parting with this week. DE Sam Hubbard announced his retirement earlier this week, which means the Bengals should be considering an edge rusher strongly in the first round. The Bengals currently hold pick 17 of the draft.
That would seem to open the door significantly for Pearce, Jr. as an option there. There are multiple players who could be on the board at that point as far as edge rushers, including Texas A&M's Shemar Stewart and Nic Scourton, Marshall's Mike Green, and Georgia's Jalon Walker and Mykel Williams.
That being said, the Bengals need someone with a proven pass rush ability rather than a talented project, and no one in the draft comes with more college production over the last two years in generating pressure on opposing quarterbacks than Pearce, Jr.
We'll see how things shake out next month in Green Bay, home of the draft this year. However, don't be surprised if the former Vol is putting on a Bengals hat while shaking the hand of Commissioner Roger Goodell on the event's opening night.
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Ole Miss continued to launch trash onto the court with the Vols in town
