Tennessee safety Trevon Flowers penned his farewell message to Tennessee and announced his plans to prepare for the NFL Draft Saturday.
Flowers was out of eligibility after playing five years at Tennessee so it was clear he wouldn’t return for another season. While it was always likely Flowers pursued a future in the NFL, the safety’s announcement made it official.
“I am excited to pursue a career in pro football as I begin the process of getting ready for the NFL Draft,” Flowers wrote in a statement he tweeted. “But Tennessee will forever be home sweet home to me.”
The multi-year starter at safety had injuries end his freshman and sophomore seasons early, but the 5-foot-11 prospect played a role in Tennessee’s defense since Jeremy Pruitt’s staff signed him.”
More From RTI: Five Critical Moments From Tennessee’s Win Over Clemson
Flowers discussed his appreciation for both Pruitt and new head coach Josh Heupel in his farewell post. The Georgia native tallied 228 tackles, eight pass deflections and five interceptions in his five year career including 57 tackles and two touchdowns during the 2022 season.
The super senior safety made big plays in Tennessee’s overtime win over Pittsburgh including an interception in the end zone and a crucial sack in overtime. Tennessee’s first 11-win season since 2001 made for a special final collegiate season for Flowers.
“Tennessee means everything to me,” Flowers wrote. “Tennessee took a chance on me as a kid who played just one year of high school football but aspired to play at the top of the collegiate game. Now I can say with my whole heart that I gave me all for Tennessee every day.”
The starting safety didn’t play in Tennessee’s Orange Bowl win over Clemson but did play the second half of the regular season with a broken hand.
Flowers is not currently projected to be selected in the 2023 NFL Draft but will have a chance to move up draft boards with a strong pro day or NFL combine performance.
