*BREAKING: Tennessee Vols’ Star Center Cooper Mays Reveals Shocking Decision to Trade Football Helmet for Chef’s Hat, Opens Own BBQ Restaurant in Knoxville*….

BREAKING: Tennessee Vols’ Star Center Cooper Mays Reveals Shocking Decision to Trade Football Helmet for Chef’s Hat, Opens Own BBQ Restaurant in Knoxville

In a move that has left Tennessee Vols fans both stunned and excited, star center Cooper Mays has announced his unexpected decision to step away from football to pursue a new passion—barbecue. The longtime anchor of Tennessee’s offensive line is officially trading his helmet and cleats for a chef’s hat and apron, opening his very own BBQ restaurant in Knoxville.

A Shocking Career Shift

Mays, a key leader for Tennessee and a fan favorite, had long been expected to continue his football career at the next level. Many believed he would either return for another season with the Vols or declare for the NFL Draft, where his talent and experience made him a solid prospect. Instead, the standout lineman has chosen to take his talents to the kitchen, launching his own barbecue restaurant—a decision that reflects his lifelong love for Southern cooking and smoked meats.

“I’ve always loved football, but barbecue has been a passion of mine since I was a kid,” Mays said in a statement. “Some guys dream of playing in the Super Bowl—I dream of making the best ribs in the South.”

Mays’ BBQ: A New Knoxville Hot Spot

The new restaurant, appropriately named “Mays’ BBQ Pit”, is set to open in downtown Knoxville later this year. Mays has promised a menu full of Southern classics, including smoked brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and his personal favorite—hickory-smoked wings.

Sources close to Mays say he’s been perfecting his recipes for years, often hosting cookouts for teammates and coaches. “Coop’s BBQ was always the highlight of team gatherings,” said a former teammate. “If his restaurant is anything like the food he made for us, it’s gonna be a massive hit.”

From the Gridiron to the Grill

While some may be surprised by his transition, those who know Mays best aren’t shocked by his passion for barbecue. He’s spoken in the past about his family’s deep-rooted love for cooking, and he even joked once in an interview that if he weren’t playing football, he’d “probably be running a barbecue joint.” Turns out, that wasn’t a joke after all.

Fans may wonder if this marks the permanent end of his football career, but for now, Mays seems fully committed to his new venture. “I’ll always love the game, but it’s time to start something new. Knoxville has some great BBQ spots, but I’m ready to bring something special to the table,” he said.

Vol Nation Reacts

The reaction from Tennessee fans has been a mix of shock and excitement. While some are disappointed they won’t see Mays anchoring the Vols’ offensive line anymore, many are eager to support him in his new endeavor.

Whether it’s on the field or behind the smoker, Cooper Mays has always been a leader—and now, he’s ready to dominate a different kind of competition. Knoxville’s BBQ scene may never be the same.