The Tennessee Vols’ footprint in the NFL is as strong as ever. The program could have three players selected in the first round of this year’s NFL Draft, and Tennessee already boasts a Super Bowl champion along with multiple Pro Bowlers this season.
The Vols' footprint is getting even stronger with some big contacts being handed out. The most recent Vosl to receive a big contract is former center Cade Mays. The Detroit Lions have just signed Mays to a 3-year, $25 million deal.
The #Lions are expected to sign former #Panthers C Cade Mays to a 3-year, $25M deal. pic.twitter.com/0uC63gBppH
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) March 9, 2026
Mays originally started his college career at Georgia before transferring to Tennessee after the 20219 season. He spent two seasons as a Vol, where he was the starting right tackle. After being a Second team All-SEC selection in 2021, he was drafted in the 6th round of the NFL Draft by the Carolina Panthers.
Mays has flourished since moving to center with Carolina. In 2025, the 26-year-old earned a 69.4 PFF pass-blocking grade, ranking 13th among 40 NFL centers. He also displayed remarkable discipline, with only two penalties in 726 snaps and zero sacks allowed. The Lions struggled last year without their star center, Frank Ragnow, who retired suddenly. Mays will bring some stability to the position and be an anchor for offensive line coach Hank Fraley.
Cade Mays isn't the only Vol getting a payday today
The Tennessee Titans also made a big move for a former Vol. Long snapper Morgan Cox has re-signed with the Titans. The 39-year-old has built an incredible career at his position, earning First-Team All-Pro honors in 2020 and appearing in five Pro Bowls.
With free agency just starting, you can bet that more Tennessee Vols will be getting a payday soon. It's great to see former players get a bag in the league, and this type of stuff helps Josh Heupel when it comes to recruiting. When high schoolers see NFL players getting paychecks who went to Tennessee, it reinforces the Vols' player development. Not only that, but sending formal portal additions to the league as well shows that Tennessee can put players into the next level, even with just a few years of development.