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Eric Berry

Cornerback

Inducted 2023

Date of Birth

12/29/1988

Birthplace

Fairburn, GA

School

University of Tennessee (2007-2009)

Bio

Eric Berry was a two-time unanimous First Team All-America (2008 & 2009) and quickly etched his name among the all-time greats in Tennessee history with his acrobatic interceptions and defensive prowess. He claimed the Jim Thorpe Award in 2009 as the nation's top defensive back. Berry was a finalist for the 2009 Bronko Nagurski Trophy and twice claimed the Jack Tatum Award from the Touchdown Club of Columbus as the nation's top defensive back. Berry helped Tennessee to two bowl berths, including a 21-17 win over Wisconsin in the 2008 Outback Bowl, which gave the Vols a final No. 12 ranking. A Freshman All-American, Berry helped the Vols bring home the SEC East title in 2007.A three-time All-SEC selection, including First Team honors in 2008 and 2009, Berry was named the SEC Defensive Player of the Year in 2008 after leading the conference with seven interceptions. Berry's tenure in Knoxville established him as the SEC's all-time leader in career interception return yards (494) and single-season interception return yards (265 in 2008). He also holds the Vols record for career yards per interception (35.3). The two-year team captain twice led the Vols in interceptions, collecting five in 2007 and seven in 2008. He finished his career with 245 tackles, 17.5 tackles for loss, three sacks, 14 interceptions, 31 passes defended, two forced fumbles, and four fumble recoveries.