Tennessee coach Butch Jones looks on during a 29-26 loss to Kentucky on Saturday, October 28, 2017. Jones and his staff are under fire for reportedly playing a player who suffered a concussion. Photo by Keyli Chisesi (Go Big Blue Country)
Everyone knew the Butch Jones era at Tennessee would be coming to an end in the near future but after today’s news, it could end at any moment.
The Read Optional reported that the coaching staff allowed Brett Kendrick, an offensive lineman for the Volunteers, to play with a concussion in a 29-26 loss to Kentucky. The report says that Kendrick told the coaching staff that he did not feel well but he continued to play another two quarters.
Tennessee AD John Currie released the following statement.
Statement by AD John Currie on reports of @Vol_Football lineman Brett Kendrick playing with a concussion. pic.twitter.com/VPSIt4EYzl
— Daily Beacon Sports (@UTKBeaconSports) November 1, 2017
Jones responded with the following statement.
Full statement on Brett Kendrick from Butch Jones. pic.twitter.com/DiWz0PiNpc
— Dan Harralson (@danharralson) November 1, 2017
This is a shaky time in Knoxville and there is no way Butch survives this mess. If they find this report to be true, the university could remove Jones without having to buy him out.
This will be an interesting story to follow. I’m just glad Kentucky was able to pick up a win last Saturday.