Sep 1, 2018; Charlotte, NC, USA; Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Jarrett Guarantano (2) takes the snap from Tennessee Volunteers offensive lineman Brandon Kennedy (55) during the second half at Bank of America Stadium. Photo Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports
Tennessee starting center Brandon Kennedy sustained a torn ACL in his right knee and will miss the remainder of the season.
Coach Jeremy Pruitt announced that Kennedy was standing when the injury occurred during Tuesday’s practice and “nobody rolled up into him.”
This marks the second straight year of a season-ending injury for Kennedy, who transferred from Alabama. Kennedy was limited to three games with the Crimson Tide in 2017 before sustaining a season-ending foot injury.
“He seems to be in good spirits,” Pruitt said. “And I know our staff and our players, everybody really has (gained) respect for Brandon since he’s been here and how he worked and went about his business.”
Kennedy will have another season of eligibility that he can use with the Volunteers for the 2019 season. The 6-foot-3, 301-pound Kennedy will also be able to appeal for a medical hardship waiver for this year and get back another season of eligibility in 2020.
“We are going to worry about getting the proper medical care, getting him fixed and rehabbed,” Pruitt said.
Sophomore Ryan Johnson, who started at right guard in the season-opening loss to West Virginia, is expected to shift to center Saturday against East Tennessee State.
Guard Riley Locklear also took snaps at center during Wednesday’s practice for the Volunteers, who are coming off a 4-8 season in which they were winless in the Southeastern Conference.
