The NFL Draft is one of the most anticipated events in sports, offering college athletes the chance to take their talents to the next level. While the Tennessee Volunteers (Vols) have a rich history of producing NFL stars, some standout players in recent years haven’t received the recognition they deserved during the draft. Here, we delve into five Vols stars who were surprisingly overlooked, examining their collegiate achievements and how their draft snubs impacted their careers.
1. Jauan Jennings (WR, Draft Class of 2020)
Jauan Jennings was one of the most dynamic playmakers for Tennessee during his college career. Known for his fiery personality and clutch performances, Jennings recorded over 2,000 receiving yards and 18 touchdowns during his time in Knoxville. His iconic 2016 Hail Mary catch against Georgia remains a highlight for Vols fans.
Despite his on-field success, Jennings fell to the seventh round of the 2020 NFL Draft, picked 217th overall by the San Francisco 49ers. Concerns about his speed and a history of disciplinary issues likely contributed to his slide. However, Jennings has since proven his value in the NFL, becoming a reliable target and a key player in the 49ers’ offense, especially in high-pressure situations.
2. Darrell Taylor (OLB, Draft Class of 2020)
Darrell Taylor was a dominant force on Tennessee’s defense, racking up 19.5 career sacks and showcasing his ability to disrupt offenses consistently. His blend of size, speed, and pass-rushing skills made him a projected early-round pick.
Taylor was eventually selected in the second round by the Seattle Seahawks, but many analysts believed he should have been a first-round pick. Injuries during the pre-draft process raised concerns, causing his stock to drop. Since entering the league, Taylor has silenced doubters, becoming a cornerstone of the Seahawks’ pass rush and proving he was worth a first-round investment.
3. Trey Smith (OL, Draft Class of 2021)
Trey Smith’s draft-day slide was one of the most shocking moments for Vols fans in recent memory. A two-time All-SEC selection, Smith was widely regarded as one of the best offensive linemen in college football. His ability to dominate in both run-blocking and pass-protection situations made him a sure-fire prospect.
However, concerns about his medical history—specifically his battle with blood clots during college—caused teams to pass on him. Smith wasn’t drafted until the sixth round by the Kansas City Chiefs, a move that now looks like a massive steal. Smith quickly became a starter on the Chiefs’ offensive line and played a crucial role in their Super Bowl LVII victory.
4. Alontae Taylor (CB, Draft Class of 2022)
Alontae Taylor was a versatile defensive back who excelled in both cornerback and safety roles for the Volunteers. A team captain and leader, Taylor’s athleticism and football IQ were evident throughout his collegiate career.
Despite his strong performance, Taylor wasn’t widely regarded as a top-tier prospect. The New Orleans Saints selected him in the second round of the 2022 draft, a decision that raised eyebrows at the time. Critics questioned whether Taylor’s skills would translate to the NFL. He has since proven his worth, quickly adapting to the professional level and becoming a key contributor to the Saints’ defense.
5. Cedric Tillman (WR, Draft Class of 2023)
Cedric Tillman was a breakout star for Tennessee, especially during the 2021 season, when he recorded 1,081 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns. His size, physicality, and ability to win contested catches made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Despite his production, Tillman was overshadowed by other wide receiver prospects in a deep draft class. He was selected in the third round by the Cleveland Browns, a surprising drop for a player with his skill set. Tillman’s NFL career is still young, but his potential to become a dominant red-zone threat remains high.
