With the recent completion of the 2024 NFL Draft, many outlets have begun their preparation for the 2025 event.
This includes taking a look at Tennessee football prospects. The name that comes up the most in talks for next year's draft is James Pearce Jr.
The rising-junior Leo is considered one of the favorites to be the first overall player taken in the draft. Here is where multiple outlets currently have him projected to go.
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WHAT THE OUTLETS SAID
PFF: "The scariest part is that he won almost exclusively off athleticism against SEC tackles. If Pearce develops more pass-rushing moves, watch out."
Bleacher Report: "Using the No. 1 overall pick on James Pearce Jr., who would have been the top edge defender if he were eligible this year, per Pro Football Focus, would be a smart move."
New York Post: "At 6-foot-5, 242 lbs., Pearce is a freaky athlete with an elite ability to convert speed to power."
USA TODAY: "A record 14 offensive players were picked before the first defender heard his name called this year. There's little chance for a similar situation to unfold in 2025, thanks in large part to Pearce. At 6-5 and 242 pounds, he is long, explosive and loose, making him a truly troublesome matchup off the edge."
NBC: "A terror off the edge who charted 8.5 sacks with a team-leading 4.7% havoc rate and 14.5 TFL, Pearce recorded the second-highest PFF pass rush grade in the P5 (92.4) behind only UCLA Edge Laiatu Latu. A crafty, versatile edge with all the physical tools to succeed, Pearce has the pedigree to revitalize the TItans’ pass rush."
The Athletic: "Pearce put some fun pass-rush reps on last year’s film, especially against South Carolina and Texas A&M. Although he is a little light (6-foot-5, 245 pounds), he has freaky ability and can secure top-10 status with another strong season."
FOX Sports: "Listed by the Vols at 6-foot-5 and 242 pounds, Pearce has a lean, lanky frame that can handle another 10-15 pounds without sacrificing his trademark burst and bend off the edge."
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