Three takeaways from Tennessee's 2025 pro day
Three takeaways from Tennessee's 2025 pro day
Tennessee held its 2025 pro day at Anderson Training Center Tuesday.
Former Vols James Pearce Jr., Omarr Norman-Lott, Elijah Simmons, Dylan Sampson and Dont'e Thornton Jr. participated in various components of Tennessee's pro day after attending the NFL scouting combine.
Additional Tennessee pro day participants included defensive lineman Omari Thomas, linebacker Eli Purcell, safety Will Brooks, long snapper Matthew Salansky and offensive linemen John Campbell Jr., Cooper Mays, Javontez Spraggins, Andrej Karic and Dayne Davis.
Of Tennessee's participants, Pearce Jr., Thornton Jr. and Sampson addressed media following their drills. Three of the most important moments from their media availabilities are below.
James Pearce Jr. discusses character
As the NFL draft approaches April 24-26, Pearce Jr. discussed his character following Tennessee's pro day.
"(I want teams to know) that I'm a great guy, a great teammate, great player, people person and that I have a good heart," Pearce Jr. said.
Dylan Sampson showcases health, receiving ability
One of the many problems that led to Tennessee's downfall against Ohio State in the College Football Playoff was an injury at running back with Sampson. He discussed his recovery following pro day.
"For one, I hope everybody sees that I am healthy and moving well," Sampson said. "I also wanted to show my receiving capabilities, show I can run routes and catch the ball naturally."
Dont'e Thornton Jr. displays speed, verticality
Thornton Jr. was quick to suggest the best comparison to himself among current NFL wide receivers being Nico Collins. Both Thornton Jr. and Collins are taller receivers who are capable of being explosive with downfield speed.
"I'm a bigger receiver, but I would also say I'm versatile as I can play both inside and outside," Thornton Jr. said. "That's the main attraction for a lot of teams."
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