Jaylen McCollough has been a mainstay in the Tennessee secondary for years, and there is now a record to prove it. McCollough–who also goes by “Tank”–broke the record for most career starts by a Volunteer with his 51st against Iowa in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl on Monday.

The Austell, Ga. native played five seasons for Tennessee, recording 237 total tackles, 15.5 tackles for loss, 6 interceptions and 21 pass breakups over that span. McCollough was rated as a 4-star recruit out of high school and was also recruited by Alabama, Auburn, Arkansas, South Carolina, Florida and others.

“My first start was against South Carolina in 2019, and we gave up a touchdown on one of my first plays,” McCollough said. “51 starts later, it’s just been a blessing to do it at this university with these great people.”

McCollough also earned an undergraduate degree in communications and is currently working towards a master’s degree in agricultural leadership, education and communication. His father Eriles played college football at Jacksonville State as well.

He will now begin the NFL Draft process, as McCollough figures to be selected in the upcoming draft given his production and experience from playing in the SEC.

Former Volunteer cornerback Jonathan Hefney held the record with 50 starts from 2004-2007 prior to McCollough breaking it.

The most starts EVER by a Tennessee Volunteer@Jay_Mccollough2 ? pic.twitter.com/gxjd6fqpb5

— Tennessee Football (@Vol_Football) January 2, 2024

Parker Gillam

Current Missouri student entering my third year of covering Tiger football and basketball. Contributor to The Transfer Portal CFB and overall college athletics enthusiast.