Tennessee senior defensive tackle Jesse Mahelona was named to the Associated Press All-America third team.

Mahelona, a 2001 Kealakehe graduate from Kailua, Kona, recorded 35 tackles, including eight for losses totalling 31 yards, with two sacks and nine quarterback hurries this season.

Earlier this month he was named honorable mention on AP's all-Southeastern Conference team.

Mahelona, 6 feet 2 and 297 pounds, was chosen to the preseason All-America teams by Athlon, Blue Ribbon, College FootballNews.com, Lindy's, Nationalchamps.net, Playboy, Sporting News, Street & Smith's and Rivals.com.

Last year, he was named to the Rivals.com and The Sporting News All-America teams.