Butch Jones Updates Injury Situations of Several Tennessee Football Players Entering Fall Camp

Butch Jones updated some key injuries for the Volunteers on Friday morning at his opening press conference of fall camp. Jones made a couple of noteworthy statements regarding the status of Darrin Kirkland Jr., Shy Tuttle, Daniel Bituli and Chance Hall.

“Chance Hall right now is getting a second opinion on his knee, so he’ll be limited, Jones said. “I’ll know more probably a little bit more on his situation at the end of the weekend.”

Jones then said, “Daniel Bituli and Darrin Kirkland Jr. will be very, very limited so that’s gon’ be an opportunity for others at the linebacker position to get quality reps early in camp.”

Kirkland is about the only thing that’s truly set when it comes to the linebacker depth chart, assuming he’s healthy. His absence is a chance for others to prove themselves. For Bituli, it’s a missed opportunity. He’s one that the staff is high on, but missed reps may hurt his chances for early playing time a little bit.

Butch continued to Shy Tuttle, saying “Shy will be available for individual drills — we have to address his progress every day and make sure we don’t put too much; we know he’s eager.”

It’s good news that Tuttle is able to run around and even compete in the individual drills. It sounds like the staff is going to nurse him along until he’s fully ready. Tennessee sure could use him healthy this season.

You can view the full press conference here.