SEC INSIDER

Tennessee reinstates suspended CB Thompson

Field Level Media

September 11, 2019 at 8:47 pm.

Tennessee reinstated sophomore cornerback Bryce Thompson, who was suspended after he was arrested Aug. 24 on a misdemeanor charge of domestic assault.

The charge stemmed from an argument between Thompson and a woman at the Knoxville campus’ Stokely Hall, in which Thompson allegedly told the woman he would “slap the (expletive) out of (her).” Other witnesses reportedly told police they heard him threaten to “shoot up the school.”

Both Thompson and the woman told responding officers they had been in a long-term relationship.

Coach Jeremy Pruitt issued a statement regarding Thompson’s status on Wednesday.

“As university processes have progressed relating to Bryce Thompson, we’ve all taken this situation very seriously,” Pruitt said. “I believe Bryce can grow by following the plan the university has put in place for him. As a result, I am allowing him to return to practice.”

Thompson admitted to arguing with the woman but said he did not hit her or make any threats. His next scheduled court date is Sept. 23.

In 2018, he was named a freshman All-American. He played in all 12 games, starting 10, and led the Volunteers with three interceptions.

Tennessee (0-2) hosts Chattanooga (1-1) on Saturday.