Tennessee star offensive lineman Trey Smith has been cleared to play in Saturday’s season opener against Georgia State, a program source confirmed to GoVols247 on Wednesday afternoon.
Smith, a former five-star prospect and Freshman All-American, has twice been shelved in past two years while battling serious blood-clotting issues.
The Vols officially announced Smith would play in Saturday’s opener later Wednesday evening.
“My family and I consulted with several of the best doctors in the country, and a plan has been developed that allows me to compete with my teammates on gameday,” Smith said in Tennessee’s release. “My family and I are confident in that plan. The coaches and staff here at Tennessee have always had my best interests at heart and I can’t thank them enough. Thanks to all of the fans and my teammates for all of their support.”
Smith, who started seven games at left tackle last season before the clots were discovered to have re-formed in his lungs in late October, has been working extensively at left guard throughout the preseason, and Tennessee coach Jeremy Pruitt indicated earlier this week that Smith would be a game-time decision on Saturday afternoon.
It turns out the Vols aren’t having to wait that long to find out Smith’s status.
“This is Trey’s decision and our medical staff has done a great job throughout this entire process,” Pruitt said in Tennessee’s release. “The main priority has been and always will be Trey’s health. Our doctors have implemented a plan that will allow Trey to play, and we are excited for him.”
