Butch Jones updated the status of running back Jalen Hurd on Monday.
After saying on Monday that he would be “full go” for practice that day, Jones told reporters on the SEC teleconference Wednesday that the star running back is “day to day” after playing a limited role late in the Georgia game on Saturday.
Butch on Jalen Hurd's status: "Jalen's day to day." Wouldn't comment on his injury and why he was in on the final kickoff.
— Patrick Brown (@pbrown247) October 5, 2016
Hurd was on the final kickoff return team during the Georgia game, but otherwise sat during UT’s crucial late drives. Jones told reporters after the game that it was a “lower extremity” injury that kept Hurd out. Hurd coughed up the ball near the goal line in the first half after letting up just short of the goal line. He got decked about a yard short, leading to the fumble into the end zone and the turnover.
But he did check back in the game after that point, scoring on a 19-yard touchdown reception early in the third quarter. He finished the afternoon with 10 carries for 42 yards and three catches for 50 yards.
If Hurd is out or limited for the A&M game, expect Alvin Kamara to get the majority of the work at tailback. The redshirt junior also lost a fumble at UGA, but finished that game with 16 carries for 62 yards, to go along with three catches for 26 yards and a score.
Sophomore John Kelly, who has three carries for 18 yards on the season, would also likely see extended action.
Other injury updates:
Jones confirmed at his Wednesday press conference that linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin is out for the Texas A&M game, and they continue to evaluate different options for him as he battles a shoulder injury.
Linebacker Darrin Kirkland Jr. remains “day to day,” though Jones did say that he was on the practice field Tuesday. Offensive lineman Coleman Thomas will be available to play, while cornerback Justin Martin will travel to A&M after being suspended last week.
