Jaylen McCollough bids farewell to Tennessee with announcement on future
Tennessee safety Jaylen McCollough broke the program’s all-time starts record at 51 when he suited up for the first snap of Monday’s Citrus Bowl, a game that was dominated by the Volunteers 35-0 over Iowa.
Now, the fifth-year senior thanks Tennessee fans for the past five seasons while announcing that he will declare for the 2024 NFL Draft.
“I am truly grateful for God’s grace and mercy over my life. Without Him, none of these opportunities would have been possible,” McCollough wrote on Instagram. “I would also like to thank Him for blessing me with my athletic abilities to perform and compete at the highest levels. This story is all God.”
Nicknamed ‘Tank’, McCollough was a four-star rated prospect out of Austell, Ga. Five years ago, the rising college prospect competed in the 2019 Under Armour All-American Game in Orlando, Fla. – the same place his collegiate career ended with Tennessee in the Citrus Bowl this week.
“I would like to thank my family for their unconditional love, support, dedication and commitment throughout my life and especially during my athletic journey,” the safety wrote. “I’m so thankful to have a support system like the one I have.
“I would like to acknowledge my guys for the brotherhood and the memories we have created these past five years. You all have made college football the best experience simply from the relationships we built.”
After coming on strong as a true freshman in 2019, ‘Tank’ remained in the starting lineup for Tennessee each of the next four seasons. Throughout his career, McCollough has played in over 3,500 snaps – including 996 snaps in 2021. The veteran was a stable at the safety position for Tim Banks and hardly ever came off the field the past three seasons.
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In 2023, McCollough graded out at 84.9, according to Pro Football Focus – and was considered the 12th-best safety in the country (minimum 100 snaps). McCollough’s grade was the third-highest among SEC safeties and his three interceptions tied for the team-lead. The defensive back also registered the third-highest tackle total for the Vols this season with 54 stops.
“I would like to extend gratitude to the men from both staffs I experienced during my tenure for taking their time to develop me, not only as a football player but as a man as well,” McCollough went on. “The lessons you all have instilled in me have equipped me for life.
“Thank you Vol Nation for sold out crowds, amazing Saturdays in Neyland, but most importantly, thank you for allowing me to experience a childhood dream at the best university in the country.”
McCollough finished his Volunteer career with a 35-0 shutout victory over Iowa in the Citrus Bowl with four tackles, one pass breakup and one quarterback hurry. In 2023, the safety logged 57 tackles with three interceptions and eight passes defended.
