Almost one month after tearing his ACL and being declared out for the season, fifth-year senior Jacob Gilliam practiced today.
“Yeah, Jacob has actually been out there to practice, he is not ready to participate in this game but just having him back on the field in his uniform working speaks volumes for his competitive character, his drive, and his passion for Tennessee and his love of this football team. There is a chance that he could play again this year.”
“It is how he progresses. Yeah, I think it is a couple weeks away and we will see. Can he hold up? Can he withstand the pounding, the physicality that comes with playing offensive line. So, it is really a week but week basis.”
“Not really placing any expectations on him, if it happens, it is a bonus, it is a benefit. So again, we are going to be extremely patient, we are going to make sure he does everything that he needs to to be able to perform at a high level before we put him out there.”
Gilliam did not have surgery, Jones revealed.
Justin Worley is expected to be 100% for Saturday’s game against Florida, while Josh Smith will not play.
Von Pearson practiced with the team on Tuesday, but is still questionable at this point. He will likely be a game-time decision.
5 responses to “Injury updates: Jacob Gillliam may play this year”
It is exciting , That young Mr. Gilliam wants to play that much . I do not see an option about CBJ letting a young man hurt himself . Perhaps I am wrong .
I think Tennessee staff will carefully handle the situation, especially in light of all that’s gone on with Brady Hoke and Michigan. As for Gilliam, he’s certainly proving to be a courageous young man. I’m certainly pulling for him.
Good for him. CBJ needs to make the right call, sit him. Not good to see him be carted off. That would be indefensible and would be counter to his overall family message.
If the doctors give him the go ahead and Jacob wants to give it a shot, I don’t see why Butch shouldn’t allow it. It’s this kid’s last shot to get on the field.
Thanks for the comment D-rock.
I agree with that but I am concerned with how it will be covered in the media.