There was a reason that Eric Berry was the first top-five safety ever selected in the NFL Draft.
When Scott Pioli turned in the draft card reading Berry's name back in the 2009 NFL Draft, he raised some eyebrows with his positional choice. At the same time, everyone also knew that he was importing just about the surest product that could exist in an NFL Draft—a pro-ready defender without a weakness who elevated the play of everyone around him.
Berry was a legend at the University of Tennessee for a number of reasons, from his incredible production to his leadership to his accolades, which is why the Chiefs decided to use a top-five pick on him. It's also why the College Football Hall of Fame has chosen Berry for induction in December as part of the Class of 2023.
Eric Berry returned to his alma mater for a day of celebration of his career achievements.
Over the weekend, Berry returned to his alma mater for a game against Texas A&M and a chance to celebrate and commemorate his incredible collegiate career. Berry was a two-time First-Team All-American with 14 career interceptions—including 3 for a touchdown—to go with 3 forced fumbles, 3 sacks, and 241 career tackles for the Vols. He was strong against the run and a beast in coverage. He led the secondary with instincts like no other.
Berry was celebrated at halftime with a special tribute video and presentation. Following th
An incredible Neyland Stadium scene, saluting Tennessee's 25th inductee into the College Football Hall of Fame.
— Tennessee Athletics (@Vol_Sports) October 15, 2023
Congratulations Eric Berry! pic.twitter.com/pbUpWYyLys
In the video above, Berry says, "It was amazing. I didn’t know what to expect all those times staying up late, working out, being with my teammates. I knew I wanted to be in the Hall of Fame but nothing about today right there… that was amazing."
Eric Berry on what is meant to him to get honored at Neyland Stadium today. pic.twitter.com/pjsdDc1kGc
— Karthik Venkataraman (@KarthikV_) October 14, 2023
"I can’t put it into words yet. I’m gonna have to sit down and let it marinate, but unbelievable. Unbelievable. Love the crowd. Got my family and friends here. Truly an honor to be recognized ... It’s lovely. It’s been awesome, just seeing everybody come together to celebrate a great cause. This is one of the reasons I came to the University of Tennessee, and it’s good to be out here to enjoy it with everybody around me."