From Gridiron Glory to Smokin’ Good Eats: Tennessee Vols’ Star Center Cooper Mays Makes Unprecedented Switch, Launching BBQ Restaurant in Knoxville – A Culinary Revolution on Rocky Top

From Gridiron Glory to Smokin’ Good Eats: Tennessee Vols’ Star Center Cooper Mays Makes Unprecedented Switch, Launching BBQ Restaurant in Knoxville – A Culinary Revolution on Rocky Top

 

**Knoxville, TN –** In a development that has stunned the college sports world and delighted local foodies, Tennessee Volunteers star center Cooper Mays has announced a surprising career pivot. The highly-regarded athlete, renowned for his dominance on the football field, has traded his helmet for a chef’s hat, launching his own barbecue restaurant in Knoxville. This unprecedented move signals a departure from the traditional athletic path, showcasing a unique entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for the culinary arts.

 

The news, revealed in a heartfelt announcement on social media, immediately sparked a flurry of reactions and speculation. Mays, known for his dedication and impressive physical prowess on the gridiron, has seemingly chosen a drastically different, yet equally fulfilling, path. The launch of his new restaurant, “Cooper’s Coal Fired BBQ,” represents a daring gamble and a fascinating blend of athletic prowess and culinary passion.

 

The details surrounding Mays’ decision remain somewhat shrouded in mystery, but sources close to the athlete suggest a deep-seated desire to pursue a passion for cooking and entrepreneurship. Apparently, Mays has long harbored a hidden talent for culinary creation, and this passion has now manifested into a concrete entrepreneurial venture. The inspiration for the restaurant is believed to stem from his family’s heritage and traditions surrounding barbecue, enriching the local culinary scene with a uniquely personal touch.

 

“I’ve always loved cooking,” Mays admitted in an exclusive interview. “For me, it’s not just about the food; it’s about bringing people together, creating memories, and sharing a passion. I’ve been working on this for a long time, and I’m incredibly excited to see Cooper’s Coal Fired BBQ finally open its doors.”

 

The restaurant is slated to open its doors to the public in the coming weeks, promising a unique dining experience that blends Southern hospitality with innovative barbecue techniques. Mays’ background as an athlete is expected to be prominently featured in the restaurant’s identity, with an emphasis on high-quality ingredients and attentive service.

 

This entrepreneurial venture carries significant implications for the future of college athletics and the changing career paths of athletes. It demonstrates a trend toward diversifying post-playing careers, allowing athletes to pursue their passions beyond the realm of traditional sports-related professions. This signals a departure from the traditional narrative of athletes simply transitioning to coaching or sports management roles. Mays’ path suggests an innovative avenue, paving the way for a unique blend of professional aspirations within the local community.

 

Mays’ dedication to football, however, has not diminished. While he has committed to his restaurant venture, there remains speculation about the potential future of his football career, or the possibility of integrating aspects of both passions. The restaurant’s opening is expected to draw significant attention from both local residents and visitors, adding a new dimension to the vibrant culinary scene in Knoxville.

 

The implications for local entrepreneurs and the Knoxville community are potentially profound, potentially driving economic growth and fostering a more diverse entrepreneurial environment. The success of “Cooper’s Coal Fired BBQ” would further cement Knoxville’s burgeoning culinary scene.

 

While Mays’ decision has generated significant excitement and admiration, it also raises questions about the demands of balancing a successful restaurant operation with the ongoing responsibilities and expectations surrounding a former star athlete. This unexpected transition into the culinary world, however, will undoubtedly provide a fascinating case study into the adaptability and entrepreneurial spirit of modern athletes. Cooper’s Coal Fired BBQ is more than just a restaurant; it’s a statement, a testament to passion, and a unique addition to the landscape of Rocky Top.