Cooper Mays Trades Helmet for Hat, Launches BBQ Empire in Knoxville
In the world of college football, Cooper Mays is a household name. As the star center for the Tennessee Volunteers, Mays was known for his dominant performances on the field, his leadership in the trenches, and his unwavering commitment to the Volunteers. However, in a surprising twist that has left fans and media alike buzzing, Mays has traded in his football helmet for a chef’s hat and is embarking on an entirely new venture: a barbecue restaurant in Knoxville, Tennessee.
This seismic shift in Mays’ career path marks not only the end of one chapter but also the exciting beginning of another. From battling in the trenches on Saturdays to now taking on the culinary world, Cooper Mays is proving that his talents extend far beyond the gridiron. With his love for food, his entrepreneurial spirit, and his deep-rooted connection to Knoxville, Mays is setting out to carve a new legacy—this time, as a restaurateur.
The End of a Football Era
For many fans of the Tennessee Volunteers, Cooper Mays’ name will always be associated with the football field. The 6-foot-3, 310-pound center from Knoxville played a pivotal role in one of the most successful periods for the Vols in recent memory. His leadership and toughness in the offensive line were critical to the team’s success, both in the SEC and on the national stage. A key figure on the Vols’ offensive line, Mays was often considered one of the best centers in the nation.
Mays’ journey to prominence began at Knoxville’s own Farragut High School, where he was a standout player from an early age. His skills and potential were immediately evident, which led him to receive scholarship offers from top-tier programs. Ultimately, Mays chose to stay close to home and join the Tennessee Volunteers, continuing a long tradition of talented athletes in the state of Tennessee.
Throughout his college career, Mays became known not only for his on-field prowess but also for his leadership and commitment to his teammates. He played through numerous injuries, earning the respect of his peers and coaches alike. In 2023, his final season with the Volunteers, Mays helped anchor a Tennessee offensive line that played a critical role in the team’s explosive offensive success.
But as the 2023 season concluded, so did Mays’ playing career. With the decision to forego the NFL draft, Mays could have opted to continue his career as a football player. However, in a move that surprised both fans and coaches, Mays announced that he would be stepping away from football and pursuing a completely new passion: barbecue.
The Birth of Cooper Mays’ BBQ Empire
While it may seem like an abrupt career pivot, the move to the restaurant business is rooted in Mays’ lifelong love of food. Growing up in Knoxville, Mays developed a passion for cooking, with a particular fondness for the rich, smoky flavors of Tennessee-style barbecue. Over the years, he perfected his own recipes, often sharing his creations with teammates and friends. His culinary skills quickly gained a reputation among his peers, and it became clear that Mays had a natural talent for creating mouthwatering barbecue dishes.
As he transitioned out of football, Mays began to explore the idea of turning his passion into a business. With the support of his family and friends, he launched the concept of “Mays’ BBQ,” a restaurant that would serve up authentic, slow-smoked barbecue with a modern twist. The decision to open the restaurant in Knoxville, a city that had supported him throughout his football career, was a natural one.
“I’ve always loved cooking, and I’ve always loved the idea of bringing people together over great food,” Mays said in an interview at the grand opening of Mays’ BBQ. “Knoxville has been so good to me, and I wanted to create something that would not only honor the tradition of Tennessee barbecue but also offer something new and exciting for the community.”
Mays’ BBQ quickly became a local sensation, attracting both longtime residents and newcomers to Knoxville. The restaurant’s menu is a reflection of Mays’ unique style—classic barbecue dishes with a modern, creative twist. From perfectly smoked ribs to mouthwatering pulled pork sandwiches, Mays’ BBQ offers a range of dishes that showcase Mays’ flair for flavor and his commitment to using only the finest ingredients. The restaurant also features a selection of sides, sauces, and desserts that highlight the best of Southern cuisine.
But what truly sets Mays’ BBQ apart is the personal touch that Cooper Mays brings to every aspect of the restaurant. As the head chef and owner, Mays is hands-on in the kitchen, overseeing the preparation of each dish and ensuring that every plate is up to his high standards. His love for cooking shines through in every bite, and it’s clear that he takes pride in providing his customers with an unforgettable dining experience.
The Success of Mays’ BBQ
Despite being a newcomer to the restaurant industry, Mays has quickly made a name for himself as a talented chef and successful entrepreneur. His passion for food, combined with his competitive drive and work ethic, has made Mays’ BBQ a must-visit destination in Knoxville.
The restaurant’s success has been fueled by word-of-mouth, social media buzz, and Mays’ strong connection to the local community. Fans of Tennessee football have flocked to Mays’ BBQ to get a taste of the former star’s signature dishes, while foodies and barbecue lovers from all over the region have praised the restaurant for its high-quality food and inviting atmosphere.
In addition to its mouthwatering barbecue, Mays’ BBQ has become a gathering place for locals, athletes, and visitors alike. The restaurant’s modern, rustic decor creates a welcoming and warm atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for family gatherings, casual nights out, or even private events. Mays has cultivated a friendly, down-to-earth environment that reflects his personality and values, and it’s clear that the community has embraced him in this new chapter of his life.
“Mays’ BBQ has quickly become one of my favorite spots in town,” said a local Knoxville resident. “Cooper has always been a guy you could count on, and now he’s bringing that same level of dedication and passion to his food. It’s amazing to see him succeed in this new venture.”
A New Chapter: Mays’ Vision for the Future
As Mays’ BBQ continues to thrive, Cooper Mays is already thinking ahead to the future. He has plans to expand the restaurant’s offerings, with hopes of opening additional locations in the coming years. Mays is also exploring new ways to innovate in the barbecue world, including experimenting with new techniques and flavors that reflect both his personal style and the traditions of Southern cooking.
“Barbecue is about so much more than just the food,” Mays explained. “It’s about creating a space where people can come together, enjoy great food, and make memories. That’s what I’m trying to do with Mays’ BBQ. I want to bring something special to Knoxville and beyond.”
Despite his success, Mays remains humble and focused on the values that have guided him throughout his career, both as an athlete and as a business owner. He credits much of his success to the support of his family, friends, and the community of Knoxville, which has helped him transition from football star to culinary entrepreneur.
“I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of so many people,” Mays said. “Football taught me a lot about hard work, discipline, and leadership, and I’m applying those same lessons to my restaurant. It’s all about putting in the effort and never settling for anything less than your best.”
The Legacy of Cooper Mays
Cooper Mays may no longer be donning a football helmet on the field, but his legacy in Knoxville remains as strong as ever. From his days as a standout player for the Tennessee Volunteers to his new role as a restaurateur, Mays has proven time and again that his drive and determination know no bounds. Through Mays’ BBQ, he is creating a new kind of legacy—one that celebrates community, passion, and the love of great food.
For fans of Tennessee football, Cooper Mays will always be remembered as a fierce competitor and a leader on the field. But for the people of Knoxville, he is quickly becoming a beloved figure not only for his contributions to the football program but also for his commitment to giving back to the city he calls home. As Mays’ BBQ continues to grow and thrive, there’s no doubt that Cooper Mays will leave a lasting imprint on the culinary scene in Knoxville, just as he did on the football field.
For now, Mays is enjoying this new journey, serving up plates of delicious barbecue with the same passion and enthusiasm that made him a fan favorite on the football field. It’s a new chapter in the life of one of Knoxville’s most respected athletes, and if his past achievements are any indication, it’s only a matter of time before Mays’ BBQ becomes a staple of Southern cuisine.