Farooq Out, Vets Step Up | Tennessee Volunteers Football News

Tennessee’s defense takes a major hit before kickoff as starting safety Edrees Farooq suffered a season-ending knee injury, forcing new defensive coordinator Jim Knowles to pivot quickly. Farooq, a breakout sophomore with 76 tackles and two interceptions, was poised to be a game-changer. With TJ Metcalf locked in at safety and Dejaun Lane (a Penn State transfer) stepping in, Knowles is leaning on versatility — rotating players like Qua Moss (nickel), DJ Burks, Sidney Walton, and Dylan Lewis across roles. Cornerback duties fall to Auburn transfer Kayin Lee and sophomore Ty Redmond. The revamped secondary gets its first test against Furman this Saturday at 3:30 PM ET — and Knowles’ “next man up” philosophy is being put to the ultimate test. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/4ed06f625a18c0f1