BREAKING: Tennessee Vols’ Star Center Cooper Mays Reveals Shocking Decision to Trade Football Helmet for Chef’s Hat, Opens Own BBQ Restaurant in Knoxville
In an unexpected twist that has shocked both the sports world and the local Knoxville community, Cooper Mays, the star center for the Tennessee Volunteers football team, has announced his decision to retire from football and pursue a completely different career path. Rather than focusing on football drills or game plans, Mays is swapping his iconic football helmet for a chef’s hat and has opened his very own BBQ restaurant in Knoxville.
The news came as a surprise to both fans and teammates, who were caught off guard by Mays’ announcement. Over the past few seasons, Mays has established himself as one of the most dominant players on the Vols’ offensive line. His physicality, leadership, and work ethic on the field made him a crucial asset to the team. However, after years of playing the sport he loves, Mays revealed that his passion for football has begun to wane, and he has decided to pursue a new dream—one rooted in a different type of competition.
“I’ve always loved cooking, especially BBQ. It’s something my family has done for generations, and it’s always been a special part of my life. I decided that if I’m going to make a change, why not do something I truly love?” Mays said in a statement to the press.
Cooper Mays’ new venture, aptly named Mays’ BBQ & Smokehouse, is located just outside the heart of Knoxville. The restaurant promises to serve up mouth-watering, slow-cooked BBQ, featuring a range of meats including pulled pork, ribs, brisket, and smoked chicken. The menu also includes classic southern sides such as mac and cheese, cornbread, and baked beans, all crafted using time-tested family recipes passed down through generations.
Mays’ decision to leave football behind for a career in the culinary arts wasn’t made lightly. It was an emotional journey that involved a lot of self-reflection and soul-searching. “Football has been my life for as long as I can remember,” he explained. “But I’ve come to realize that my heart is leading me in a new direction. This was a tough choice, but at the end of the day, I want to follow my passion and build something that brings people together in a different way.”
The announcement has sparked a wide array of reactions. Many Tennessee fans were initially stunned by the decision, as Mays had become one of the most beloved figures on the team. His dedication to the Vols was unquestionable, and his presence on the field will be sorely missed. However, fans quickly rallied around Mays, wishing him the best in his new endeavor. Social media platforms have been flooded with messages of support, with many expressing excitement over the prospect of trying the football star’s BBQ.
“I’ll miss watching him play, but I’m definitely excited to see what he can do with BBQ,” said one Vols fan on Twitter. “If it’s anything like his performance on the field, we’re in for some great food!”
Mays also received support from his former coaches and teammates. Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel expressed his admiration for Mays’ decision, calling it a brave step. “Cooper’s always been a leader on and off the field, and we know he’ll bring that same passion and determination to his new venture. We’re proud of him, and we’re excited to see what he accomplishes next.”
As for Mays, he’s excited to embark on this new chapter in his life. He plans to be heavily involved in the day-to-day operations of the restaurant, overseeing everything from cooking to customer service. With his drive and attention to detail, there’s no doubt that Mays’ BBQ & Smokehouse will become a staple in Knoxville’s food scene in no time.
Though Cooper Mays’ football career may be over, his legacy as a leader and competitor will live on. But for now, the former Tennessee Vols star is focusing on the next big challenge—perfecting his BBQ recipes and serving up some of the best smoked meats in the South.