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 turn of events, Cooper Mays, the star center for the Tennessee Volunteers football team, has announced a surprising career pivot that has caught fans and the football world off guard. After years of dominating the gridiron, Mays is hanging up his football helmet to embrace a new passion: cooking. The 23-year-old has decided to open his very own barbecue restaurant in Knoxville, marking the end of his football career and the start of an exciting new culinary journey.
Mays, a key figure on the Vols’ offensive line, made the announcement on social media, revealing his decision to leave football behind in favor of pursuing his long-held dream of becoming a chef. “I’ve always had a passion for food, especially barbecue. Over the years, I’ve spent countless hours perfecting my skills, and I feel like it’s time to share my love for cooking with others. This is a new chapter in my life, and I’m excited to see where it takes me,” Mays said in an emotional post.
A Family Tradition
Mays’ love for cooking runs deep in his family. Growing up in Knoxville, he was influenced by his parents and grandparents, who were avid food enthusiasts, particularly when it came to grilling and barbecuing. The Mays family tradition of gathering around the grill for family cookouts has been a staple of Cooper’s life, and he credits these experiences as the foundation for his culinary ambitions.
“My family has always loved to cook together, especially on weekends when we’d get together for some good BBQ,” Mays shared. “That’s where I learned the basics, and over time, I found my own passion for grilling and smoking meats. Football has been great to me, but my heart has always been in the kitchen.”
The Rise of Cooper’s BBQ
Cooper Mays’ barbecue restaurant, named “Cooper’s Smokehouse,” is set to open its doors in the heart of Knoxville. The restaurant promises to bring the flavors of Tennessee’s best barbecue to both locals and visitors, offering an extensive menu of smoked meats, ribs, pulled pork, and a variety of signature sauces. Mays has even teased the possibility of offering limited-time specialty dishes that reflect his Southern roots.
The restaurant’s opening has already created a buzz in Knoxville, with fans of Mays eagerly anticipating the chance to try his famous BBQ. “It’s going to be an exciting experience for everyone. We’re all used to seeing Cooper on the field, but now we’re going to get a taste of his cooking,” said one local fan, who is also a long-time supporter of the Vols.
From Football Field to BBQ Pit
Mays’ decision to transition from football to the culinary world has come as a shock to many. After a standout career with the Vols, including being named to the All-SEC team and playing in multiple bowl games, Mays was considered one of the top centers in college football. However, despite his success on the football field, it’s clear that Mays’ passion for cooking has always been a significant part of his life.
Football, though a massive part of his identity, never fully defined Mays’ sense of purpose. His decision to shift gears from football to culinary arts speaks volumes about his dedication to following his passion and the importance he places on personal happiness and fulfillment.
“I’ve loved every moment of my football career. I’ve been fortunate to play for such a great team and have such an amazing fanbase, but ultimately, I’ve realized that I need to pursue my true calling. I want to inspire others to follow their dreams, no matter how unconventional they may seem,” Mays said during a recent interview.
A New Legacy in Knoxville
While Mays’ football legacy will never be forgotten, his new venture into the culinary world is shaping up to be just as impactful for Knoxville and the surrounding community. Cooper’s Smokehouse is expected to create dozens of new jobs and attract both locals and tourists who are eager to try some of the best barbecue in the state.
“I’ve always been proud of being from Knoxville, and I want to give back to the community that has supported me throughout my football career. This restaurant is just the beginning, and I’m excited to see where it leads,” Mays added.
With his unique journey from the football field to the BBQ pit, Cooper Mays is set to leave a new kind of legacy in Knoxville—one filled with the aroma of slow-cooked meats, the sound of sizzling grills, and, most importantly, a continued commitment to excellence in whatever he does. Fans of Mays can rest assured that, although his time on the field may be over, his passion for excellence remains as strong as ever. And now, it’s just taking a different form.
As the opening day of Cooper’s Smokehouse draws near, anticipation is building, and one thing is clear: Cooper Mays is not just another former football star—he’s a new face of Southern barbecue.
The Future of Cooper’s Smokehouse
Mays has big plans for the future of Cooper’s Smokehouse, including expanding the brand beyond Knoxville. He’s also been in talks with local schools and youth organizations to offer cooking classes, aiming to inspire the next generation of chefs. While it’s clear Mays’ love for cooking runs deep, his desire to mentor others and share his journey is just as powerful.
“We’re just getting started,” Mays said. “This is about more than just food. It’s about passion, dedication, and making something great. I want to bring people together around good food, just like I did with my teammates on the field. This is a new challenge, and I’m all in.”
As Mays embarks on this new journey, one thing is certain: his legacy will live on—both in the hearts of Tennessee football fans and in the smoky, flavorful dishes served up at Cooper’s Smokehouse.
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