Tennessee offensive lineman Cade Mays is returning to Knoxville for another season in 2021.

“I am returning and will be able to do spring ball,” Mays reportedly told Jimmy Hyams on Thursday afternoon.

A Tennessee spokesman confirmed that report via 247Sports.

Mays started seven games this season for the Vols and could have left to start his NFL career. However, he’ll instead be returning for another season under coach Jeremy Pruitt.

He’s a former 5-star prospect from Knoxville. He attended Knoxville Catholic High School, but originally enrolled at Georgia. He transferred to Tennessee a year ago and was able to obtain immediate eligibility.

Mays has family connections to Tennessee including his younger brother, Cooper, who is currently on the team. His father also played for the Volunteers in the early 1990s and was a captain.

Tennessee went 3-7 this season but the pieces are there for improvement in 2021. The Vols will open next season at home against Bowling Green on Sept. 4, 2021.