Tennessee junior offensive lineman Nathan Niehuas has left the football program.
After being noticeably absent from practice on Wednesday, Jeremy Pruitt confirmed during his post-practice media session that Niehaus has, in fact, made the decision to leave the team.
The redshirt junior didn’t play during his first two seasons in Knoxville, but appeared in ten games last season for the Vols, starting six times at right guard while also playing some at tackle.
Niehaus had been moved from right tackle to guard during Tuesday’s practice, according to Patrick Brown. Some speculated that move might have triggered his departure.
Today, Niehuas released a statement that he is retiring from football due to injuries and the overlapping war on his body. He thanked his coaches — Fulmer, Pruitt, Chaney and Friend — for their support and encouragement.
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