In a rankings update, Tennessee signee James Pearce was upgraded to a five-star prospect by On3. The 6-5, 220 pound edge rusher was previously the 57th ranked prospect in the nation, but has now moved all the way up to No. 11 overall.
Pearce was a surprise during the early signing period, committing and signing with the Volunteers. He was the third big get of the day, following running back Justin Williams and defensive tackle Tyre West.
Tennessee had a clear need on the edge, lacking impactful depth behind Tyler Baron and Byron Young. They appear to have found some depth with some big time upside in Pearce.