Younger Mays walking his own path

Wrapping up his freshman year at Knoxville Catholic, offensive lineman Cooper Mays seeing the growth and improvement personally. He is seeing his recruitment gain traction and just because his family has ties to Tennessee, doesn't mean he will end up in orange. It's about finding the right fit for him.

"I know through my family and through Cade's decision that I don't need to feel any pressure to go anywhere," Mays said. "I can just go wherever I feel like is best of me. There is no pressure."

Cooper was on Rocky Top last weekend to see the Vols. It's a trip he has made countless times and more importantly he does so these days as a prospective student athlete. It's a different feeling, but it's also the same good natured visit he has had for a long time.

"They tell me to come back whenever I want too," Mays said. "I'm always welcome here. I've been here a lot and I know what to expect. It's always good to come here and feel the love."

He is just beginning to build a relationship with new offensive line coach Walt Wells. The two first met last season at the satellite camp in Jackson and have recently seen a blossoming relationship.

"Coach Wells is pretty cool," Mays said. "I didn't really have a relationship with him until recently. I just had one with coach Mahoney. I've been here twice since he was hired and he is pretty cool. I like him."

Mays plays on attending the opening regionals in Atlanta and the Rivals camp series in Charlotte. He has been spending a lot time in the weight room as he tries to get bigger and stronger. He is a very good athlete, who could play a number of different positions on the offensive line.

"I'm more of a fast twitch player," Mays said. "I'm playing left guard beside my brother. The year after he leaves, I'll probably move to right tackle.

And the focus now becomes learning each position and showcasing that versatility.

"Coming in to freshman year, I was just focused on learning the offense and what I'm supposed to do everything fast and as hard as possible," Mays said. "Now that I know the plays and the offense, I can learn more about my technique and develop that more along with other positions and what they are doing."