Cooper Mays missed some time in the 2023 regular season, but the Tennessee offensive lineman has made plans for 2024.

“Back to finish what I started…,” Mays wrote on social media as he also shared a Bible verse. “Numbers 6:24-26 “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.”

May’s decision adds to plenty of good news already for Tennessee on the offensive line. Starting tackles John Campbell and Gerald Mincey already announced they’re returning next season. It’s an experienced group, who will block for 5-star quarterback Nico Iamaleava, who will take over the starting job in 2024.

Mays put off the NFL for one more season as he was an All-SEC selection this past season.

Overall, he’s played 39 games at UT with 31 starts. He has been the Vols’ center for all 3 seasons in coach Josh Heupel’s offense.