Josh Heupel comments on losing Edrees Farooq, Jaedon Harmon to injuries
By Andrew Olson
Published:
Injuries are a part of football. The injury bug, though, has been especially rough on Tennessee.
Last week, UT linebacker Jaedon Harmon suffered a torn ACL that is expected to keep him out for the 2026 season. On Friday, Tennessee starting safety Edrees Farooq tore his patellar tendon. The Vols announced Saturday that Farooq is out for the year.
Tennessee coach Josh Heupel met with the media on Saturday after the Vols scrimmaged. He was asked about the recent injuries on defense.
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“I hate it for Edrees. Hate it for Jaedon,” Heupel told reporters. “Two plays that, not heavy contact either. Just unique body positions, and you know, ultimately, have real injuries. Hate it for both of them because they’re both great teammates. They’ve both had great offseasons. Guys that have invested in the growth of understanding the game, their position, their bodies. It’s also why I know, through this rehab process, they’re going to handle it like pros and come out the other side. They got great futures ahead of them.”
Farooq was praised by new defensive coordinator Jim Knowles on multiple occasions. Heupel was asked Saturday if the loss of Farooq will affect the scheme. While acknowledging the impact on depth, the head coach expects Knowles to continue to be creative. Heupel liked what he saw from the safeties on Saturday.
“Everybody hurts — coaches, players, everybody in your program — when you see somebody have a real injury like that,” Heupel said. “At the same time, I thought they responded extremely well (the) back half of practice yesterday, and today, (with) this opportunity, getting ready to go compete.”
Tennessee opens the 2026 season against Furman on Sept. 5.
Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaign of Fred Taylor.
