Tennessee linebacker Jeremy Banks is in Indianapolis this week for the NFL Scouting Combine and is meeting with the media for the first time since his unexpected absence in the Vols’ loss at South Carolina,
Asked multiple times about his unexpected absence, Banks was largely non committal about why he didn’t suit up against the Gamecocks.
“It’s a competitive environment, but I look back and I’m thankful to be here and grateful to be here and blessed,” Banks said.
When pressed for more details, Banks stuck to his competition line and din’t add any more details.
“It was just a competitive environment and everybody competing for a spot. I’m here now,” Banks added.
Josh Heupel and Tennessee never specified why Banks didn’t play against South Carolina but it appeared to be a suspension. Banks dealt with no injuries during his senior season and was back one week later for the regular season finale against Vanderbilt.
More From RTI: Tennessee Lands Commit From Elite Receiver
“Wasn’t about no conflict or [nothing] like that,” Banks said on an Instagram story following the South Carolina game. “Get Facts bro, coming back harder than ever!”
The multi-year starting linebacker opted out of Tennessee’s Orange Bowl matchup against Clemson, making the Vanderbilt game the final game of his college career.
Banks totaled 53 tackles, one forced fumble and four pass deflections in his redshirt senior season. The former Tennessee linebacker is one of seven former Vols at the NFL Combine this week, joining Hendon Hooker, Jalin Hyatt, Cedric Tillman, Byron Young, Darnell Wright and Paxton Brooks.
Rocky Top Insider will have updates on the Tennessee players’ performance all week.
