Tennessee’s struggles on the offensive line have been a constant theme in recent seasons due in large part to players failing to even make it to the end of their playing careers on Rocky Top.

We can now add another name to the growing list of linemen that won’t make it to year four in the orange and white jersey as redshirt junior Nathan Niehaus has stepped away from the team for medical reasons.

Jeremy Pruitt announced Niehaus’ departure from the program on Wednesday evening but did not specify why the lineman was leaving the team. When asked if the lineman left voluntarily, Pruitt said the decision was “absolutely” Niehaus’s to make. A recent statement from the Ohio native confirms that comment.

David Ubben of The Athletic recently shared the following statement from Niehaus the day after it was announced the lineman was leaving Tennessee’s football program:

“All good things must come to an end. The University of Tennessee and the game of football have been nothing short of blessings and much cherished gifts that will always have a place in my heart. However, due to sustained injuries and the overlapping wear on my body, I have decided to retire from the game that has taken me places that I never could have imagined. It was my decision to start the process of finishing my college education and finally chase the career of my dreams. Coach Fulmer, Pruitt, Chaney and Friend have only been supportive and encouraging fo their players, and I thank them for the lessons learned within such a short period of time. As well as Coach Fitzgerald and his assistants, head trainer Jeronimo and team physicians, head nutritionist Rachel and her many assistants, you will not find a more dedicated group of people that are the absolute best at their craft. Not only lessons on the field and in the weight room, but lessons of the competitive drive to handle the speed of life no matter the cost. Most all off, Vol Nation, thank you for your endless love and support even through the absolute worst of times, and I hope this decision shows the true value of the greatest fans on earth!”

In recent seasons, Tennessee’s offensive line has lost Jack Jones, Devante Brooks, Eric Crosby, Tanner Antonutti, Chance Hall and 2019 signee Melvin McBride to medical retirements. If Tennessee is ever going to climb back up the SEC ladder, this has to be among the key issues the program addresses in the seasons to come as the Vols have now lost more than an entire unit up front to medical retirements.

Pruitt used his latest SEC Media Days appearance to pitch receivers and pass rushers to join his program. Don’t be surprised if he now does the same for the offensive line the next time he has the spotlight of a national audience.