Former Tennessee Star Jay Graham Arrested in Prostitution Sting

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) – Former Tennessee Volunteers running back and high school football coach Jay Graham was arrested Wednesday during a prostitution sting in Nashville, officials reported.

The 50-year-old Graham, now head coach at Centennial High School, faces charges of patronizing prostitution with a minor and solicitation of a minor for aggravated statutory rape. His bond is set at $45,000.

According to the Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD), Graham responded to an advertisement on an adult escort website. He allegedly engaged in a conversation with an undercover officer posing as a 16-year-old girl, agreeing to pay $120 for sex.

Detectives from MNPD’s Special Investigations Division, in cooperation with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, arrested Graham after he went to a hotel room in Nashville where he exchanged money for sex.

After his arrest, Graham was immediately fired from his coaching position and suspended from his teaching duties at Centennial, following a notification sent to parents from school officials.

“Law enforcement has not indicated that there should be any concern for Centennial families; however, we encourage anyone with information to come forward,” the message read.

Graham’s history includes a successful college career at Tennessee from 1993 to 1996, where he rushed for 2,609 yards and earned All-SEC honors.

Graham also has experience coaching at various high-profile programs, including Alabama, Texas A&M, and Florida State, where he contributed to a national championship win in 2013. He joined Centennial’s coaching staff in March 2025 and has been pivotal in leading the team, which currently holds a record of 2-4 this season.

The investigation revealed additional arrests, including two other men connected to the same sting operation.