2 weeks Ago
Few college football programs can match the legacy the University of Tennessee has built—not just on fall Saturdays, but every April when Vols become pros. According to the university’s official Twitter account, Tennessee has now produced 387 all-time NFL Draft picks, reinforcing its reputation as one of the most talent-rich programs in college football history. From Hall of Famers to first-round stars and gritty late-round selections, the Volunteers have consistently supplied the NFL with elite talent.
This milestone further solidifies Tennessee’s place among the sport’s blue bloods. The Vols rank in the top 10 all-time for total NFL Draft picks, with a legacy that spans from General Neyland’s single-platoon era to today’s fast-paced, modern offenses. Tennessee’s draft history features iconic names.
Peyton Manning, the No. 1 overall pick in 1998, rewrote the NFL record book and became one of the most recognizable faces in the game. Reggie White, the legendary “Minister of Defense,” remains a gold standard for defensive linemen and holds a place in both the College and Pro Football Hall of Fame.
From Jason Witten to Alvin Kamara, Tennessee players have brought toughness, skill, and professionalism to every level of the NFL. Tennessee’s NFL pipeline has gained fresh momentum under head coach Josh Heupel, who has modernized the offense and reignited national interest in Rocky Top. His high-octane scheme and player-first culture have created a platform for athletes to showcase their skills on the biggest stage.
In just the 2023 and 2024 NFL Drafts, the Vols sent several players to the league, including Jalin Hyatt and Hendon Hooker. Looking ahead to 2025, Tennessee could once again be well represented, with James Pearce Jr. projected as a potential first-round selection.
This 387-player milestone is more than a stat—it’s a reflection of Tennessee’s consistency, culture, and commitment to excellence. For generations, wearing the Power T has meant more than competing for SEC titles—it’s meant preparing for careers at the next level. With a passionate fan base, a legacy built on greatness, and a head coach leading a new era of success, Tennessee’s total is only going to rise.
No matter the decade, no matter the position, the NFL always finds room for a Volunteer. • Follow Tennessee on SI on Twitter: @VolsOnSI • Follow Tennessee on SI on Facebook: @VOLS on SI Follow Caleb Sisk On Twitter: @CalebSisk_ Follow Tanner Johnson On Twitter: @JohnsonTanner23_ Follow Jonathan Williams On Twitter: @DR_JWill Follow Evan Crowell On Twitter: @evanvcrowell Follow Brooks Austin On Twitter: @BrooksAustinBA Follow Josh Greer On Twitter: @JSGreer731 Make sure to follow our website Tennessee on SI. REPORT: Transfer Price for Nico Iamaleava Rapidly Dropping What We Learned About the Tennessee Volunteers During Spring Practice NCAA Transfer Portal Needs that Must Be Addressed by Tennessee Football North Carolina Football Reportedly "Out of the Mix" for Tennessee's Nico Iamaleava Tennessee Football 2026 Target G'nivre Carr Recaps Tennessee Spring Game Visit Who’s Next for Tennessee Football at Quarterback? Tennessee Football Linebacker Target Brayden Rouse Recaps Tennessee Spring Visit Tennessee's Elijah Simmons Labeled One of the Biggest Sleepers for 2025 NFL Draft Where Will Nico Iamaleava Transfer - Options For Vols Transfer QB Limited Latest NCAA Baseball Rankings: Tennessee Volunteers Rise Up a Spot Former Tennessee Quarterback Comments on Nico Iamaleava Transferring Tennessee Players Threatened to Sit Out of Playoff Game Over NIL, Including Iamaleava.
