Tennessee revealed unfortunate news regarding star quarterback Hendon Hooker.
On Sunday, the team confirmed that Hooker tore the ACL in his left knee during Saturday’s 63-38 loss to South Carolina. The injury marks an unfortunate end to his collegiate career.
“Forever a Tennessee legend and the ultimate teammate, we know Hendon will come back stronger than ever as he embarks on a promising NFL future,” the team wrote on Twitter. “Thank you, Hendo.”
Although he’ll miss Tennessee’s final game against Vanderbilt, Hooker could still emerge as a Heisman Trophy finalist. He accrued 3,135 passing yards, 27 passing touchdowns, and just two interceptions, alongside 430 rushing yards and five scores for the Volunteers.
Before two losses dashed Tennesse’s College Football Playoff hopes, Hooker led the Vols to an 8-0 start and No. 1 national ranking. He threw five touchdowns in a 52-49 victory over Alabama
Joe Milton will start in place of Hooker for Tennessee’s final game next Saturday.