CFB Championship Picks: Alabama vs Georgia
Two Tennessee defensive linemen have declared for the NFL Draft recently after finishing their collegiate careers in the Music City Bowl last week. On Wednesday afternoon, Tennessee’s Matthew Butler and Ja’Quain (Jay) Blakely both made their announcements.
With both Butler and Blakely having completed their Tennessee careers, both men are now looking to take their game to the next level. Both of the Tennessee defensive linemen will be working extensively in the next few months as they search for an opportunity to play in the NFL.
“Vol Nation, I can’t thank y’all enough for the unwavering passion and support that has been given the past 5 years,” Butler said in a post on social media. “Since I was a child I’ve dreamed of playing and excelling in the NFL. That starts now as I prepare for the 2022 NFL Draft.”
Blakely also posted a similar message to Twitter, thanking the Tennessee fanbase as he updated everyone on his next step.
“Rocky Top will truly always be home,” Blakely said in closing. “With all of this being said, after many prayers and consideration, I have decided to declare for the 2022 NFL Draft. Thank you all so much. 48 out!”
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Butler, a super-senior from Raleigh, N.C., was tremendous for Tennessee in his final season. The dominant defensive lineman was second on the team in sacks with five and was fourth on the team in tackles per loss (8.5). But what really made Butler so valuable to this Tennessee team was his consistent reliability. Butler had one of the highest snap counts on the team this year, which is saying something for a defensive lineman sitting at 295-pounds. In addition, Butler always had some of the most memorable press-conference moments throughout the year.
For me, the choice to lead an ordinary life is no longer (has never been) an option. 🕸#TheButler pic.twitter.com/NTEfzHoVyG
— Matthew Butler (@mattbutler_45) January 5, 2022
Blakely, on the other hand, was the other half of Tennessee’s dynamic duo with Butler. The sixth-year senior has been with Tennessee since 2016 but had his most effective season by far in 2021 under assistant coach Rodney Garner and head coach Josh Heupel. During his career, Blakely played in 49 total games for the Big Orange with ten starts to his name. Additionally, Blakely had career-highs in 2021 for tackles (29) and tackles for loss (5).
48 out 🤟🏿🥺💜 pic.twitter.com/g33WtoVgA1
— Jay Blakely #48 🦥🦥 (@BlakelyJay) January 5, 2022
