New 2025 NFL Mock Draft has 2 Tennessee football stars taken in the first round

With how great the Tennessee Volunteers are looking this year, the fanbase is fired up to see what can be done for the rest of the campaign. While ESPN may disrespect them with new CFP projections, it doesn't take away from the fact that this squad is the real deal.

It also means that there are superstar talents who will surely be ready to play on Sundays next season. Indeed, there are plenty of Vols playmakers who have a bright future in the NFL. The list of course includes pass-rusher James Pearce Jr. and defensive lineman Omarr Norman-Lott.

Those two standouts are a big reason why the Tennessee defense has been so dominant and why the Vols are currently the No. 7 team in the country. In a new Mock Draft from Pro Football Focus, both guys are being taken off the board in the first round.

James Pearce Jr. is headed to the Buccaneers in PFF's new Mock Draft

"The Buccaneers were cruising before their Week 5 Thursday night loss to the Falcons, and now injuries to key players have the team in a precarious spot. Even when they were rolling, their pass rush was lacking, especially on the edge. Pearce is primarily a speed rusher, and that’s what Tampa Bay's defensive line needs."

- PFF's Trevor Sikkema

In this case, Pearce is making his way to Tampa Bay, which makes sense. The Bucs's pass-rush has been underwhelming, which is why TB has been linked with a potential trade for Giants' outside linebacker Azeez Ojulari ahead of the trade deadline on Nov. 5.

As for Norman-Lott, PFF thinks he'll be a good fit for the Cardinals, who could also use some help up front for their defense. Arizona is coming off a thrilling win over the Dolphins, but this team is still rebuilding.

Someone like Norman-Lott, who checks in at 6-3, 315 pounds, would be a welcome addition for the NFC West side. There's still plenty of time until the draft next April, but Vols fans have to love the early buzz surrounding Pearce and Norman-Lott at this time.