Following a debacle of a coaching search, Tennessee AD John Currie was relieved of his duties and Phillip Fulmer took over.

However, since Currie would be owed $5.4 million if he is fired without cause, the Vols have apparently decided to keep him on the staff.

According to a report from KnoxNews.com, Vice Chancellor for Communications Ryan Robinson confirmed that Tennessee was still honoring the terms of Currie’s contract, even as he remains suspended:

“Yes, he remains suspended with pay,” Robinson said in an email. “Regarding pay, benefits, and all other matters with respect to his employment, the university is operating in accordance with its employment agreement with Mr. Currie. There is no timetable.”

According to the report, the university has not yet given a reason for Currie’s suspension, but it’s not hard to figure out it is related to the botched coaching search.

How long Currie’s suspension lasts remains to be seen, but he has not yet been fired by the Vols.