Tennessee football veteran defensive lineman Dominic Bailey has officially declared for the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. After six collegiate seasons, all with the Vols, Bailey is out of eligibility, but is now trying his hand at the professional ranks.
Bailey announced the decision on his Instagram page the day following the team’s loss to Illinois in the Music City Bowl.
“After careful thought and prayer, I have decided to declare for the NFL draft. This decision comes with immense gratitude for everyone who has helped shape me on and off the field,” Bailey wrote.
“I want to give a special thank you to coach Rodney Garner for believing in me, pushing me every day, and helping me grow as a player and as a man. Your mentorship and guidance have beamtn more to me than words can express.
“I am also incredibly thankful to the University of Tennessee for giving me the opportunity to compete at the highest level, represent this great program, and be part of a special family. Tennessee will always be home, and I will forever be grateful for the memories, relationships, and lessons gained here.
“Thank you to my teammates, coaches, family, and fans for the constant support throughout this journey. I am excited for the next chapter and ready for what lies ahead.”
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Bailey produced 27 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks and one forced fumble during the 2025 season. He was a key piece of the defense, naturally playing defensive end, but also sliding in to play defensive tackle early in the year when the thin room suffered injuries.
In 2024, he was also a key part of the defensive line, which was among the best units in the country. Bailey recorded 25 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, a forced fumble and two fumble recoveries. He played in all 13 games in both of the 2024 and 2025 seasons, as well as the prior 2023 and 2022 campaigns.
In 2021, he only played in two games and earned a redshirt. In 2020, he played in only one game under Jeremy Pruitt. He decided to stay through the coaching change.
Out of high school, hailing from Salisbury, Maryland, he was considered a four-star prospect and the No. 20 defensive tackle on 247 Composite.
