Tennessee center Brandon Kennedy leaving the door open to return for 7th season of eligibility

Tennessee center Brandon Kennedy is entering his sixth season of eligibility — could a seventh be up next? It’s possible, thanks to the NCAA’s ruling to freeze eligibility this fall.

Kennedy transferred to Tennessee after a couple of injury kept him away from any chance of starting at Alabama. The Volunteers had a clear need up front for veteran bodies, so the fit was natural. He probably didn’t envision being granted a sixth season, and he certainly didn’t see a potential seventh season coming, but it’s something that he’s weighing for 2021.

“You know, right now I’m kind of focusing on this season,” Kennedy told reporters earlier this week. “It really wasn’t in the plan. But, you know, whatever happens after this season is kind of up to chance, so I’m just kind of taking it day by day, as far as this sixth year that I have. And if it may happen in the future, it may. But as of right now, I’m not really sure.”

Kennedy was granted his sixth season after missing time at Alabama due to injuries. His return gives Tennessee a potentially potent and extremely veteran interior offensive line, possibly completed by Cade Mays. Joining them will be two former five-star prospects at tackle, sophomores Wanya Morris and Darnell Wright.

When Kennedy arrived in Knoxville, the offensive line was nothing short of a disaster. Now, thanks in part to his experience and leadership, it’s set to be the strongest group on the entire roster.