Shocking news from Knoxville to report as Tennessee has dismissed defensive tackle Danny O’Brien, one of the team’s senior leaders, the week of the Alabama game for a ‘violation of team rules’.

O’Brien was carted off the field in the Vols’ last game against Texas A&M. The university released the following statement explaining the redshirt senior’s dismissal – which is unrelated to his injury:

“Defensive lineman Danny O’Brien has been dismissed from the Tennessee football team for violation of team rules. This news is unrelated to the injury he suffered against Texas A&M. However, should he require any additional care, it will be provided by the University of Tennessee.”

O’Brien has started every game this year for the Vols after playing in 36 games in his career prior to this season. This incident does not represent O’Brien’s first trouble with the team, as he was suspended for the Oklahoma game in 2015 – also for an unspecified violation of team rules.