It’s been reported multiple times now that Freshman All-American offensive lineman Trey Smith will miss all of Tennessee’s spring practices due to an unspecified health concern. There’s been little in the way of updates on Smith since the initial reports came out and head coach Jeremy Pruitt confirming them a couple weeks ago. But now Pruitt has given another update on the Vols’ star lineman.
In an interview with WATE News, Pruitt was asked about Smith and his health. Pruitt once again confirmed that Smith would not be participating in spring practices, but the Vols’ new head coach seemed optimistic about Smith’s return.
“Trey’s not going to participate in spring,” Pruitt said. “He’s had a couple little procedures done and we’re excited about having him back this summer, this fall. I saw him the other day and he was working out in the weight room.
“I’m not a doctor, but he’ll be back soon we hope.”
Smith was one of the few bright spots on an otherwise forgettable Tennessee offense last season. He was voted a Freshman All-American and All-SEC player by several different outlets, and he was the only offensive lineman to start all 12 games for the Vols last year. Smith came in as a five-star tackle from University School in Jackson, TN and lived up to the hype during his first year on campus.
The Vols will be without Smith and veteran lineman Chance Hall during spring practices this year. Hall is expected back in the fall as he recovers from an injury that kept him out all of last season.
Time will tell when — or if — Smith rejoins Tennessee’s roster. But Pruitt seems optimistic that Smith will be back sometime after spring, and that’s good news for both Smith and the Vols.
