With some of the top overall testing times among all the participating universities, Tennessee made a big impression at the NFL Combine. Although almost all of the Vols that participated performed well, three players in particular stood out.
Following the NFL Combine, these three Tennessee Volunteers saw an increase in their stock.
James Pearce Jr.
Out of all the defensive linemen who tested, the Tennessee edge rusher made headlines by having the fastest 40-yard dash. For a 245-pound machine off the edge, his official time of 4.47 is absurdly fast. Pearce shined throughout testing in Indianapolis, earning him a spot among this year’s top combine participants. After his performance, GMs probably raised his draft stock since they were worried about his hand-fighting ability.
Simmons, Elijah
At the combine, Simmons ran a faster 40-yard dash than anticipated, with an official time of 5.37. At 334 pounds, this is quick for a true defensive tackle/nose guard. He is anticipated to be a priority UDFA or a late-day draft selection. Simmons’ strong combine testing offers him a good chance of being taken, even though he didn’t get as much playing time at Tennessee as some would have liked.
Dont’e Thornton Jr.
Thornton will undoubtedly win this year’s combine. In addition to measuring well at the combine, the 6-foot-4, 215-pound receiver also performed well in the 40-yard dash, clocking in at a scorching 4.30. He achieved the second-fastest top speed of 23.66 mph and the fastest 10-yard split speed of 18.71 mph. If Thornton keeps up his current pace, he may move up in the draft to a day two or early day three pick. Thornton’s health was the biggest obstacle. He was continuously injured in the 2024โ2025 season and missed the entire 2023โ2024 season with Tennessee. Fortunately, his test results are indisputable.
