In an unexpected and shocking move, Cooper Mays, the star center of the Tennessee Volunteers football team, has made a bold decision that has stunned both his fans and sports pundits. After years of dominating the gridiron, Mays has announced that he is stepping away from football to pursue a completely different career: owning and operating a barbecue restaurant in Knoxville, Tennessee.
This startling announcement comes at a time when Mays is at the peak of his athletic career. As one of the most highly regarded players in college football, Mays’ decision to retire from the sport has left many questioning the motivations behind this dramatic change. However, those closest to Mays suggest that his love for cooking, especially barbecue, has been a driving force in his life, even while juggling his football commitments.
In an exclusive interview, Mays opened up about his decision, reflecting on his time with the Vols and how his passion for culinary arts led him to take this daring leap of faith. “Football has given me so much, and I’ll always be grateful for my time on the field,” Mays said. “But cooking has always been something I’ve loved. It started with family barbecues growing up, and over the years, I’ve become more and more fascinated with perfecting my craft. I want to see what I can accomplish in the culinary world.”
From Gridiron Glory to Grilled Perfection
Cooper Mays, a 6’3” 305-pound powerhouse, was a key player on Tennessee’s offensive line, a position that demands precision, toughness, and unparalleled dedication. His talent on the field was undeniable, and it was clear that he had a future in football—whether at the professional or collegiate level. However, Mays had a different game plan in mind. He wanted to create something of his own in a field that fueled his passion for years.
While the football field often provides the perfect stage for athletes to showcase their physical prowess, the kitchen has become the perfect stage for Mays to showcase his creative skills. Over the past few years, he began honing his culinary expertise, focusing heavily on barbecue. His love for smoked meats, slow-cooked to perfection, grew with every passing year. His backyard grill became his sanctuary, a place to experiment with flavors, spices, and techniques. This culinary obsession led him to explore new recipes and eventually led to the idea of starting his own restaurant.
Despite his busy schedule as a student-athlete, Mays never lost sight of his culinary dreams. He spent weekends learning the tricks of the trade from local barbecue masters, traveled to renowned BBQ spots around the country, and worked to perfect his craft. It was clear that his journey in the world of barbecue was one built on years of dedication and a genuine love for the art.
A New Beginning in Knoxville
Mays’ new venture, aptly named “Mays’ BBQ Smokehouse,” is located in the heart of Knoxville, Tennessee. The restaurant’s opening was met with a wave of excitement from local fans who had grown to know Mays for his work on the football field. Mays’ connection to the Knoxville community runs deep, as he has been a prominent figure in the area since joining the Vols as a freshman. His decision to launch his business here is a testament to his commitment to giving back to the city that supported him during his time as a player.
“Mays’ BBQ Smokehouse” is designed to be more than just a place to grab a meal—it’s an experience. The restaurant features a rustic, yet contemporary ambiance, with exposed brick walls and a state-of-the-art smoker that cooks up some of the finest barbecue in the region. The menu is a blend of traditional Southern BBQ favorites, including slow-cooked ribs, pulled pork, and smoked brisket, as well as Mays’ own innovative creations.
“I wanted the restaurant to reflect both my roots and my love for experimentation,” Mays said. “Barbecue is a tradition, but there’s always room to push the boundaries and create something unique. We’re offering the classics, of course, but I’m also excited to share some of the special recipes I’ve developed over the years.”
One of the restaurant’s standout dishes is the “Cooper’s Pitmaster Platter,” a family-style platter featuring an assortment of smoked meats, homemade sides, and a selection of Mays’ signature sauces. The platter has already become a fan favorite, with customers praising the tender meats and bold flavors.
The Road Less Traveled: Overcoming Doubts
While the support from his fans and family has been overwhelming, Mays’ decision has not been without its challenges. Many have questioned why someone at the peak of their career in college football would walk away from a future in the NFL, a path that could lead to fame, fortune, and recognition on the biggest stage.