Former Tennessee Vols James Pearce Jr. and Rickea Jackson Are Turning Heads as Rising Stars in Pro Football and Basketball

James Pearce Jr. and Rickea Jackson arrived at the University of Tennessee with high expectations—and they’ve more than lived up to them. Now, as they transition to the next level, their names are generating buzz for all the right reasons. Pearce, a dominant pass-rusher with elite athleticism, and Jackson, a scoring machine with a pro-ready game, are two former Vols who are making waves in their respective professional pursuits. Their journeys from Knoxville to potential stardom in the NFL and WNBA are not only a testament to their hard work but also reflect the growing power of Tennessee athletics in preparing athletes for success beyond college.

James Pearce Jr. was a standout force on the Tennessee defensive line throughout his college career. Known for his explosive first step, relentless motor, and natural pass-rushing instincts, Pearce evolved from a highly-touted recruit into one of the most feared edge defenders in the SEC. At 6-foot-5 and 245 pounds, Pearce possessed the physical tools to be disruptive on every down. His final season in Knoxville was his most dominant, tallying double-digit sacks and consistently collapsing pockets against elite competition. What separated Pearce from many of his peers, however, was not just the stat sheet—it was the way he altered offensive game plans. Quarterbacks hurried throws, coordinators schemed to avoid him, and yet he still found ways to leave his mark.

When NFL scouts descended on Tennessee’s Pro Day, Pearce was the main attraction. His performance didn’t disappoint. Clocking a blistering time in the 40-yard dash and displaying remarkable agility in position drills, he confirmed what game film had already shown—he’s a rare athlete with the upside to become a star. Analysts praised his explosiveness, bend around the edge, and ability to convert speed to power. One scout noted, “He’s got traits you just can’t teach. Guys like this don’t come around often.” As a result, Pearce’s stock skyrocketed ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft, with many projecting him as a first-round pick and some even floating top-10 potential.

Pearce’s story isn’t just about athletic talent—it’s also about maturity and leadership. As a junior, he became one of the vocal leaders of Tennessee’s defense. Coaches praised his preparation, his willingness to mentor younger players, and his relentless work ethic. “James was a pro before he ever got to the league,” said one Tennessee assistant. That mindset, combined with his physical gifts, has NFL teams confident that he can step into a starting role early in his career and make an impact.

Meanwhile, on the hardwood, Rickea Jackson has been just as electrifying. After transferring to Tennessee from Mississippi State, Jackson immediately became the centerpiece of the Lady Vols offense. Her ability to score at all three levels—slashing to the rim, hitting mid-range jumpers, and draining threes—made her one of the most versatile forwards in women’s college basketball. She played with poise, strength, and a scoring instinct that couldn’t be taught. By the end of her senior season, Jackson had solidified herself as not only one of the best players in the SEC but in the entire country.

What made Jackson so special at Tennessee wasn’t just her stat line—it was her ability to deliver in big moments. She routinely took over games in the fourth quarter, demanding the ball and delivering clutch baskets. Her competitive fire and confidence became hallmarks of the Lady Vols’ identity. Teammates fed off her energy, and opponents struggled to contain her. In her final collegiate game, Jackson dropped a double-double in front of a roaring home crowd, leaving everything on the floor in a performance that encapsulated her time in Knoxville: gritty, fearless, and unforgettable.

Like Pearce, Jackson impressed at the next level with her pre-draft workouts and interviews. WNBA coaches and executives praised her polish, basketball IQ, and readiness to contribute immediately. Her draft stock reflected that confidence. Selected in the first round of the 2024 WNBA Draft by the Los Angeles Sparks, Jackson walked across the stage with a wide smile and a Lady Vols legacy behind her. Since arriving in Los Angeles, she’s continued to impress—both in practice and in early game action. Coaches rave about her versatility and ability to defend multiple positions. Her teammates admire her professionalism. She’s quickly proving that her game translates—and that she has the tools to be a long-term contributor, if not a future star.

Rickea’s impact goes beyond the box score. She’s become a role model for young athletes, especially in Tennessee. Her journey from Detroit to Starkville to Knoxville to the WNBA is one of perseverance, growth, and belief. She’s vocal about the importance of mental health, community support, and women’s empowerment. Fans who followed her career at Tennessee now cheer her on with pride as she shines on the biggest stage. Her story is a beacon for aspiring hoopers who dream of making it to the league.

Together, Pearce and Jackson represent a golden era for Tennessee athletics—a time when the Vols and Lady Vols are not just competitive, but producing professional talent at a high level. Their emergence speaks to the culture that Tennessee has rebuilt in recent years. Under head coaches Josh Heupel and Kellie Harper, both programs have emphasized development, accountability, and a family-first approach. That atmosphere has allowed players like Pearce and Jackson to flourish.

For Pearce, the NFL will be the ultimate test—but one he’s ready for. His rookie season will be closely watched, and there will be inevitable growing pains. Still, his ceiling is immense. Teams will lean on him to bring immediate pass-rush help, and early returns suggest he has the mindset and physical tools to deliver. He’s the kind of player who could anchor a defensive front for years. More importantly, he carries himself with the humility and hunger that often define great pros.

Jackson, too, is entering a league where the margin for error is slim and the competition fierce. Yet she’s already proven that she belongs. Her scoring touch, rebounding ability, and toughness make her an ideal fit for the modern WNBA. As she continues to adjust to the pace and physicality of the pro game, her confidence and consistency will be key. But few doubt that she has the talent to carve out a long and successful career. With her combination of skills and leadership, she could become a foundational piece for the Sparks.

As they both rise in their respective sports, Pearce and Jackson remain proud ambassadors for Tennessee. They often reflect on their time in Knoxville with gratitude, crediting the coaching staff, fan base, and their teammates for helping shape their journeys. In interviews, they speak with pride about donning the orange and white and representing a university with such a rich athletic tradition.

Their success also serves as a recruiting boost for Tennessee. Future prospects looking at the Vols and Lady Vols can now see a clear path to the pros. The program has produced stars before—but with Pearce and Jackson emerging simultaneously, there’s a renewed sense of energy around what’s possible in Knoxville. Whether it’s a dominant edge rusher or a scoring-forward phenom, the Tennessee pipeline is thriving.

Looking ahead, the spotlight will only grow brighter for James Pearce Jr. and Rickea Jackson. They’ve already captured the attention of fans, scouts, and analysts. Now, they’ll look to cement their place among the best in the game. If their time at Tennessee is any indication, they won’t just meet expectations—they’ll exceed them.

They are the new face of what it means to be a Tennessee alum in the professional ranks: talented, driven, and ready for greatness.