Heupel: K’Rojhn Calbert to miss ‘an extended period of time’ after surgery

A report from VolQuest last week has proven to be true, as expected. Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel confirmed that K’Rojhn Calbert suffered an injury and will miss a large chunk of time.

Calbert was battling to be one of five starters up front on Tennessee’s new-look offensive line. He had been working at both right and left tackle.

“K’Rojhn did have surgery and will not be with us here for an extended period of time right now,” Heupel said on Thursday. “I’ve said it before, the strength of one position, it can’t just be one guy. Certainly the offensive line fits into that. The next guy’s got to step up and take advantage of his opportunity, and at the end of the day compete and prove that he can play at a championship level.”

The McMinnville, Tennessee native is a senior, but he has another year available to him if he wants it, thanks to the NCAA’s freezing of eligibility in 2020.

Per the report from Volquest, it was a biceps injury for Calbert. It’s the latest in a long line of setbacks for the 6-5, 325 pounder, who has battled knee issues in the past. He fell victim to contract tracing during 2020’s camp, which set him back for much of the season. Calbert didn’t play significantly, only really finding time on special teams.

Tennessee is likely left with Darnell Wright and Cade Mays as the starting tackles, with Dayne Davis being a bit of a ‘swing’ tackle. Cooper Mays at center, Jerome Carvin at guard and Javontez Spraggins at guard are your likely starting five to open the season.

Depth here is now a bit of a concern, with nothing concrete beyond those top five.