JP Peace, a 6’3″, 215-pound linebacker from Knoxville’s West High School, has committed to play for the University of Tennessee. Peace will join the Vols in 2027 and become the first member of Tennessee’s 2027 recruiting class.
His grandfather, Phillip Fulmer, is a Tennessee legend, celebrated for his time as a player, his tenure as head coach, and his role as athletic director. His father, Robert Peace, starred as a linebacker for the Vols in the early 2000s.
A Legacy Continues: Peace’s Family Ties to Tennessee
JP Peace’s grandfather stands as one of the program’s most iconic figures. he played offensive line for the Vols from 1968 to 1971 before transitioning to a coaching career. As head coach, he guided Tennessee to six SEC East titles, two SEC championships, and the 1998 national championship.
The 1998 squad, finishing 13-0 and defeating Florida State in the Fiesta Bowl, remains a golden memory for Tennessee fans. Later, Fulmer served as athletic director from 2017 to 2021.
The legacy continued with JP’s father, Robert, who suited up as a linebacker for Tennessee from 2000 to 2003. he contributed to teams that claimed the SEC East in 2001 and competed in bowl games like the Citrus Bowl. His senior year in 2003 showcased his talent, with 103 tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss, and two sacks.
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In an interview with ESPN, Robert noted, “Naturally, Tennessee was the leading school for him. We encouraged him to visit other places and he did that. But Tennessee was the place for him and not just because of the family legacy here”. This emphasizes that his decision arose from personal conviction, shaped by interactions with the coaching staff and vision for his future with the Vols.
At 6’3″ and 215 pounds, he boasts the frame to thrive as a linebacker. Early in his high school career, he has already caught the eye of several Power Four programs. Offers from Virginia Tech, Kentucky, and Florida State, which underscore his potential, still he chose to stay in Knoxville and pledge to Tennessee. This choice reflects both his trust in the Vols’ direction and the pull of playing close to home.
At West High School, he competes for a program synonymous with success. The Rebels secured consecutive 5A state titles in 2022 and 2023, and he has played a pivotal role in the dominance.
In his sophomore season, he tallied 51.5 tackles, 4.5 sacks, an interception, a fumble recovery, and a forced fumble. These numbers illustrate his ability to impact games in multiple ways.
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