Tennessee suspends starting LT Drew Richmond for the opener against Georgia Tech

Tennessee was just dealt another early season blow. Head coach Butch Jones announced that starting left tackle Drew Richmond has been suspended for the opening game against Georgia Tech for a “violation of team rules.”

The rumors on this one had been swirling for a few weeks now. It appears they were true after all. If you buy the depth chart, Nathan Niehaus would be the next man up. But I think Marcus Tatum is the more likely to fill in for Richmond. Brett Kendrick likely gets the go on the right side.

The blows are adding up for Tennessee. Darrin Kirkland Jr. was lost last week, now Richmond. We’ll have to wait at least another week to see the Vols at full strength up front.

UPDATE: Butch Jones confirmed that Tatum and Kendricks will start at the two tackle positions.