Pruitt: Trey Smith a ‘game-time decision’ against Georgia State

It’s game week for the Tennessee Volunteers, but the status of star offensive lineman Trey Smith is still unknown. The former five-star recruit has battled blood clots over the past 18 months, but is looking to continue his football career.

Smith has worked in non-contact drills in the spring and fall, but hasn’t been given a total green light just yet. According to Jeremy Pruitt, his status ahead of Saturday’s opener against Georgia State will be a game-time decision.

“The plan has not changed with Trey,” Pruitt said. “Our doctors will continue to work to try and find him an opportunity to play. He has had a chance to participate in a couple of practices this camp. It will really be a game time decision with that.”

Smith was listed as a co-starter at left guard with Riley Locklear on Tennessee’s first depth chart. He began his Tennessee career at right guard, putting together an outstanding freshman season in 2017. He kicked outside to left tackle to begin 2018, before having to be shut down mid-year after his blood clots returned.

Tennessee has more depth on the offensive line coming into this year, but Smith playing would be a huge shot in the arm. Rightfully so, however, Tennessee is going to play this one very carefully.