Tennessee Vols Edge Rusher James Pearce Makes Strong Statement About Himself and Shouts Out Hendon Hooker at NFL Draft Combine
As the 2025 NFL Draft Combine unfolded, Tennessee Volunteers edge rusher James Pearce made a powerful statement about his abilities, his journey, and the influence of his teammates, most notably quarterback Hendon Hooker. Pearce, who has been a standout performer for the Vols, is considered one of the most intriguing defensive prospects heading into the draft. His performance at the Combine, coupled with his words about Hooker, made it clear that he is focused not only on his own success but also on the collective effort that helped propel Tennessee’s football program to new heights in recent years.
James Pearce: A Rising Star on the Defensive Line
James Pearce, a key contributor to Tennessee’s defensive front, is known for his explosive speed, versatility, and ability to wreak havoc in the backfield. His unique combination of size and agility has made him one of the top edge rusher prospects in this draft class. Pearce’s performance on the field throughout the 2024 season showcased his raw talent, and his physical traits have made him a potential game-changer at the next level.
At the Combine, Pearce had the chance to display his athleticism and get the attention of NFL scouts. But it wasn’t just his physical abilities that stood out; it was his mental toughness and maturity that impressed those in attendance. Pearce was quick to make it clear that he’s not just focused on getting drafted—he’s intent on becoming a difference-maker in the NFL, and he’s ready for whatever challenges lie ahead.
A Statement About Himself
When speaking to the media, Pearce took the opportunity to make a bold statement about his journey and what makes him stand out as a prospect. He acknowledged that while he’s still growing as a player, he brings a relentless motor and a determination to be the best. Pearce’s rise to the top hasn’t been easy, but he’s proven that hard work and perseverance pay off.
“I’ve been grinding since day one,” Pearce said at the Combine. “It’s not just about the physical tools, it’s about your mentality. Every day, you’ve got to be working on getting better—no matter what the circumstances are. I’m ready to show what I can do at the next level.”
His words reflect the mindset that has made Pearce a standout player for Tennessee. Whether it’s his explosive first step off the line of scrimmage or his relentless pursuit of the quarterback, Pearce’s motor has been a key part of his success. He’s earned a reputation for being a player who never gives up on a play, which is exactly the kind of mentality that NFL teams look for in edge rushers.
Shouting Out Hendon Hooker
While Pearce took center stage to talk about his own growth and future aspirations, he also made sure to give credit to those who helped him along the way. The biggest shoutout of all was to Hendon Hooker, Tennessee’s star quarterback who was a key figure in the Volunteers’ success in recent seasons. Hooker, who has been widely regarded as one of the top quarterbacks in college football, helped elevate Tennessee’s offense and was a big part of the team’s resurgence under head coach Josh Heupel.
Pearce was vocal about Hooker’s influence, both on and off the field. “Hendon is one of the hardest workers I’ve ever been around,” Pearce said. “He’s the type of guy that just leads by example. He makes everyone around him better, and he showed me the importance of putting in the work every single day. Hendon has had a huge impact on this program, and I’m lucky to have played alongside him.”
Pearce’s admiration for Hooker highlights the bond between the two players and the respect Pearce has for his former quarterback. Hooker’s leadership and work ethic were key to Tennessee’s offensive explosion, and it’s clear that Pearce appreciates the way Hooker raised the level of play for everyone on the team. In a sport like football, where teamwork is paramount, Pearce’s recognition of Hooker’s contributions speaks volumes about the Vols’ camaraderie and culture.
The Tennessee Connection
Pearce’s shoutout to Hendon Hooker also underscores the growing reputation of the Tennessee football program, especially under the leadership of Josh Heupel. The Volunteers have made great strides in recent years, returning to national relevance after a period of mediocrity. Pearce and Hooker were both crucial pieces of Tennessee’s resurgence, and the NFL Draft Combine serves as a reminder of how far the program has come.
For Pearce, the Combine was a chance to showcase his talent on the national stage, but it was also a moment to reflect on his time at Tennessee. The success of players like Hooker and Pearce is a direct reflection of the development that has taken place under Heupel’s watch. Tennessee has proven that it can produce NFL-caliber talent, and Pearce’s rise is just the latest example of that.
What’s Next for James Pearce?
As the NFL Draft approaches, Pearce’s future looks incredibly promising. His performance at the Combine will undoubtedly help elevate his draft stock, but his true test will come on the field at the next level. Pearce’s combination of size, speed, and tenacity makes him an ideal fit for an NFL defense looking for an edge rusher who can consistently disrupt the quarterback.
Teams in need of pass-rushing help will likely be keeping a close eye on Pearce, and his draft position will depend largely on how well he continues to refine his technique and adapt to the speed and complexity of the professional game. However, if his work ethic and mindset are any indication, Pearce is poised to make an immediate impact in the NFL.