Former Tennessee Volunteers center Cooper Mays has been invited to participate in the Miami Dolphins’ rookie minicamp, marking a significant step in his professional football journey. This opportunity comes after a standout collegiate career at Tennessee, where Mays established himself as one of the nation’s premier offensive linemen.
A Stellar Collegiate Career
Cooper Mays, standing 6’4″ and weighing 310 pounds, was a cornerstone of the Tennessee offensive line for five seasons. Starting 45 games at center, he played in 53 contests, accumulating nearly 3,000 offensive snaps. Notably, he allowed only five sacks throughout his career and maintained a streak of 26 consecutive games without permitting a sack, underscoring his consistency and reliability.
In his final season, Mays earned first-team All-American honors from Sporting News, Sports Illustrated, and USA Today, and was a finalist for the prestigious Rimington Trophy, awarded to the nation’s top center. He was also a first-team All-SEC selection by the coaches and a second-team pick by the Associated Press.
Family Legacy and Leadership
Football runs deep in the Mays family. Cooper’s father, Kevin, was an All-SEC guard for Tennessee in the 1990s, and his older brother, Cade, also played for the Vols before being drafted by the Carolina Panthers in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Cooper’s leadership was evident both on and off the field, as he served on Tennessee’s leadership council and was recognized for his academic achievements, earning a spot on the SEC Academic Honor Roll multiple times.
Overcoming Setbacks
Despite his accolades, Mays faced challenges during the draft process. He was notably excluded from the NFL Scouting Combine, a decision that sparked discussions about the evaluation process for offensive linemen. Nevertheless, Mays remained undeterred, continuing to train and prepare for professional opportunities.
Looking Ahead
The invitation to the Miami Dolphins’ rookie minicamp is a testament to Mays’ perseverance and skill. While the minicamp will be an important step, it is only the beginning of what Mays hopes will be a successful NFL career. With his strong work ethic, leadership qualities, and technical proficiency, Mays aims to prove himself worthy of a spot on the Dolphins’ roster.
As the NFL season approaches, all eyes will be on Mays as he takes this next step in his professional journey. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, demonstrating that determination and dedication can lead to new opportunities, even in the face of adversity.
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