“Jesse Perry Emerging as Key Contender for Starting Role on Tennessee’s 2025 Offensive Line Amid Depth, Competition, and Expectations”
The Tennessee Volunteers enter the 2025 college football season with high expectations, a talented roster, and serious momentum under head coach Josh Heupel. As the team prepares for what could be a defining year in their resurgence, one of the biggest questions revolves around the offensive line—a position group critical to the success of a high-powered offense led by sophomore quarterback Arch Manning. While several names are competing for spots in the trenches, one player steadily rising in the mix is redshirt sophomore Jesse Perry, whose development and versatility have thrust him into serious contention for a starting role on the 2025 offensive line.
Jesse Perry’s journey to this moment has been one of quiet progress, hard work, and patient growth. Hailing from Middle Tennessee, Perry arrived in Knoxville as a somewhat under-the-radar recruit—one whose potential was clear but who would need time to physically and mentally develop into an SEC-caliber lineman. Now, entering his third year with the program, he’s added weight, refined his technique, and grown into a player who could be counted on to help anchor a line tasked with protecting one of the most high-profile quarterbacks in the country.
Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing over 310 pounds, Perry brings the kind of frame and athleticism that Tennessee’s coaching staff covets. He has the flexibility to play both guard and tackle, and that versatility has made him a valuable asset in the rotation throughout spring practices and fall camp. Whether he starts on opening day or not, Perry’s role in 2025 is expected to be significant. He’s no longer just a developmental prospect—he’s a real contender, and coaches have taken notice of the leap he’s made in both confidence and execution.
The offensive line room at Tennessee is a competitive one, filled with returning contributors, young talents, and veteran transfers who bring experience to the group. But even among this depth, Perry has distinguished himself. Throughout spring camp, he consistently took reps with the first and second units, earning praise for his footwork, hand placement, and understanding of the playbook. Offensive line coach Glen Elarbee has publicly commended Perry for his progress, particularly in terms of his grasp of defensive fronts and ability to communicate effectively on the field—an underrated but essential trait for any offensive lineman.
One of Perry’s defining traits is his work ethic. Coaches and teammates frequently mention his dedication to film study, early morning workouts, and extra reps after practice. He’s the kind of player who asks questions, seeks feedback, and constantly looks for ways to improve. That attitude has helped him earn the trust of the coaching staff and put himself in position to make a real impact in 2025. Perry’s emergence also speaks volumes about Tennessee’s developmental pipeline—a credit to the program’s strength and conditioning staff, position coaches, and culture of internal competition.
The role Perry plays this season could be even more vital given the offensive direction Tennessee is expected to take under Arch Manning. With a young quarterback commanding the offense, the importance of a dependable offensive line cannot be overstated. Whether it’s in pass protection or run blocking, Perry’s ability to hold his own against SEC defensive linemen will be a crucial factor in the offense’s rhythm and success. Manning has the arm talent to make any throw, but he needs time and protection to survey the field, and players like Perry are key to ensuring that happens consistently.
In addition to his on-field contributions, Perry is emerging as a leader in the locker room. While not the most vocal player, he leads by example. Younger linemen look up to him as someone who has embraced the grind, remained coachable, and stayed ready for his opportunity. His story is one that resonates within the team—a reminder that success isn’t always immediate, but it’s attainable for those who stay the course. That mindset has helped build the kind of culture Heupel has sought to instill since arriving in Knoxville: one rooted in accountability, effort, and team-first mentality.
From a technical standpoint, Perry has made noticeable improvements in his leverage, balance, and ability to anchor against bull rushes. He’s more confident in his first step and increasingly decisive when engaging defenders. His run blocking has also taken a step forward, particularly in zone schemes where lateral movement and quick footwork are essential. In Heupel’s uptempo offensive system, linemen must be agile, quick to reset, and able to handle high snap counts. Perry has shown he’s capable of meeting those demands and thriving within the pace and complexity of Tennessee’s playbook.
The coaching staff’s confidence in Perry is also evident in how he’s being used during camp. He’s taken reps at both left and right guard, and in some packages, even seen action at right tackle. That positional flexibility makes him a valuable chess piece—someone who can fill in when injuries occur or when matchups dictate specific line combinations. With a grueling SEC schedule ahead, depth and adaptability along the offensive line could make the difference between wins and losses in close games. Perry’s ability to plug in seamlessly at multiple spots gives the Vols an added layer of protection and strategy.
As Tennessee prepares for its 2025 campaign, competition across the offensive line remains fierce. Veteran returnees are battling to retain starting spots, while highly touted freshmen and transfers are pushing for playing time. That environment has elevated everyone’s performance, and Perry has embraced the challenge. Rather than shying away from the increased competition, he’s used it as fuel—proving with each rep that he belongs in the conversation. That competitive fire has helped Perry close the gap between being a rotational player and becoming a trusted starter.
Looking ahead, Jesse Perry’s potential goes beyond the 2025 season. If he secures a starting role and performs at a high level, he’ll put himself on the radar for postseason awards, NFL scouts, and national recognition. But for now, his focus remains squarely on helping Tennessee win games, protect his quarterback, and pave the way for a run-heavy attack when needed. That singular mindset—focused on the team’s success rather than personal accolades—has endeared him to coaches and made him a model of what the program hopes to develop in every player.
Perry’s rise is also a reflection of Tennessee’s renewed emphasis on offensive line development. In past seasons, the Vols sometimes struggled with consistency up front, but under Heupel and Elarbee, the unit has steadily improved. They’ve placed greater emphasis on recruiting linemen with high ceilings, investing in strength and nutrition, and creating a cohesive unit that communicates well and plays with a physical edge. Perry represents the fruits of that effort—a homegrown, developed player now ready to take center stage.
For fans, watching Perry’s progress will be one of the most intriguing storylines this fall. Offensive linemen rarely get the spotlight, but their importance is felt on every snap. If Tennessee’s offense clicks the way many believe it can in 2025, it will be in large part due to the performance of the line—and players like Jesse Perry anchoring it. Whether it’s picking up blitzes, clearing running lanes, or setting the tone with physicality, Perry’s contributions will be felt, even if they don’t always show up in the box score.
In a season loaded with expectations and opportunity, Jesse Perry finds himself at the center of Tennessee’s plans. He’s not just a player fighting for a spot—he’s a symbol of what the program can become when patience, development, and culture align. As the Vols march into a new chapter led by Arch Manning and a cast of rising stars, they’ll do so with a line built on grit, preparation, and belief. And in that foundation, Jesse Perry stands tall—ready, willing, and fully in the mix.
