James Pearce Jr.

James Pearce Jr.

 Photo: Courtesy UT athletics

Thanks to his breakout sophomore year, there will be plenty of eyes focused on Tennessee defensive lineman James Pearce Jr. heading into the 2024 season.

The 6-5, 243-pound Pearce on Monday was named to the 2024 Walter Camp player of the year award preseason watch list, joining 49 other players — only nine of whom are defenders.