Tennessee was dealt a big blow this weekend with the news that starting middle linebacker Darrin Kirkland Jr. significantly injured his knee in a non-contact drill. The injury is expected to hold him out for several weeks, however, that has not been officially stated at this time.

His coach Butch Jones made a Sunday night appearance on local Knoxville WNML radio program The Nation and offered by the latest on his star defender after being asked about his status following the weekend injury.

“Right now he’s still being evaluated,” Jones said on the air. “We are going through that evaluation phase right now — so no timetable on him.”

While the Kirkland news has to be deflating to Tennessee fans, Jones did share some positive news regarding senior receiver Josh Smith. Originally reported to have suffered a significant injury, Smith’s status apparently continues to get more positive as time passes heading into the season opener.

“I think we’ve learned through the Josh Smith injury (against making evaluations too early). There’s actually a possibility that Josh could be available for the game Monday night,” Jones revealed during his radio appearance.

Tennessee opens the season next Monday night, Sept. 4, in Atlanta’s new Mercedes Benz Stadium against Georgia Tech.